Abstract: The present invention discloses a mechanical apparatus for performing automatic and unattended data storage and retrieval tasks. The apparatus enables automating the data storage procedure of recording files on multiple compact discs (CDs) or digital versatile discs (DVDs) without relaying on the intervention of a human operator. The apparatus automatically transfers empty discs into the disc drive, removes them from the disc drive and marks them appropriately once the disc writing and reading procedures are completed. The apparatus is composed of an arm equipped with a gripping mechanism such as suction cups or mechanical grippers which can move vertically and horizontally and transfer the discs according to necessity. Two embodiments are described: in the first embodiment the horizontal movement of the arm is circular and is performed around a central axis; in the second the movement is along a straight line and the arm is positioned on a rack.