A system and method for processing a plurality of data storage and retrieval management or manifest files in a virtual data storage system. A plurality of individual management/manifest files, which are each used to track data management information stored on a data storage device, are merged into a single management or manifest file that can then be used to subsequently manage the input or import of data such as logical volumes from one or more physical media. This single management/manifest file could be used, for example, in a media import operation for importing a media cartridge or device into a media library such as a data storage library.