An optical disk cartridge insertion apparatus for an optical disk storage and handling system for use in association with an optical disk cartridge of the type having a rear end portion which is adapted to be inserted into an optical disk reading device and having a forward end portion which is adapted to be grasped by a human operator for handling the cartridge comprising a cartridge receiving assembly for receiving an optical disk cartridge in a predetermined orientation therewith, said cartridge receiving assembly being displaceable between a first relatively rotated operating position and a second relatively rotated operating position angularly displaced from said first operating position.