Abstract: In the file retrieval managing system, each shelf board (5) has a retrieval plate (1) comprising a plurality of optical guide plates, indicating visible light emitting elements, retrieving light emitting elements, and light receiving elements. A file (9) stored on the retrieval plate is provided with an identification board (2) which emits from its light emitting portion a light beam incident from the retrieving light emitting element at a corresponding position into each optical guide plate as an output light beam having an optical pattern peculiar to the file. The output light beam is converted by the light receiving element at the end of the optical guide plate into an electric signal to obtain detected data. Upon retrieval of the file, retrieval data of a desired file is inputted.