A computer-implemented method according to one embodiment includes creating journal entries in response to performing predetermined operations on a sequential storage medium, storing the journal entries in a memory in response to creation thereof for creating an operation journal, and upon occurrence of a predefined event, saving the operation journal. A computer program product according to another embodiment includes a computer readable storage medium having program instructions embodied therewith. The computer readable storage medium is not a transitory signal per se. The program instructions are readable and/or executable by a controller to cause the controller to perform a method including creating, by the controller, journal entries in response to performing predetermined operations on a sequential storage medium. The journal entries are stored, by the controller, in a memory in response to creation thereof for creating an operation journal. The operation journal is saved upon occurrence of a predefined event.