Frame assembly for a data storage and retrieval system of the type in which data storage cartridges are transported between storage locations and drive locations where data is written to and read from the cartridges. The frame includes a backplane which has a generally planar front surface, a plurality of spaced apart divider plates projecting in a forward direction from the front surface of the backplane, and a plurality of crossbars extending across the front portions of the divider plates and defining with the divider plates a plurality of cartridge cells and drive locations. Guide blocks which define slots for the cartridges project in the forward direction from the front surface of the backplane adjacent to the crossbars on opposite sides of the cartridge cells. Bezel strips extend along the front portions of the crossbars and interfit with the crossbars and the guide blocks, and bezel plates extend across the drive locations and interfit with the crossbars on opposite sides of the drive locations. The assembly is held together by screws which extend between the bezel strips and bezel plates and the backplane.