A pre-formatted optical data storage tape (10) including an elongated linear polymer layer having at least one pattern of optically readable embossments (114) on at least one surface of the polymer layer, and an optical recording layer covering the pattern of optically readable embossments (114) of the elongated linear polymer layer, wherein the optical recording layer is adapted such that recorded marks (120) may be made in the recording layer by directing a focused source of energy into the recording layer.