Abstract: A storage system includes at least one storage medium having a label, the label having a width extending along a first axis. The tape storage system further includes a reader to read the label based on light scanned across the label, where the reader has a light sensing portion extending along a second axis that is inclined with respect to the first axis.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for and a method of electronic inventory management. An electronic inventory management tool preferably comprises a memory for storing an electronic determination of a desired quantity of at least two types of materials, and materials ordering logic configured to supply an electronic message to a supplier of one of the types of material specifying quantity and time frame requirements therefore as a function of the desired quantity, and further configured to process a confirmation message from the supplier. The electronic inventory management tool may further comprise feedback logic coupled to the memory and programmed to provide information with respect to consumption of one of the types of materials to ensure the desired quantity of the one type of material is available.