In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a sequential storage media drive may include a first reel for rotatably winding sequential storage media tape from an opposing second reel of a data cartridge, an enclosure for housing the first reel and housing the data cartridge when the data cartridge is inserted into the sequential storage media drive and an access door mechanically coupled to the enclosure, the access door configured to be translated from a closed position to an open position to allow a user to access the first reel from an exterior of the enclosure in the event the data cartridge of the sequential storage media tape becomes lodged in the sequential storage media drive.