CS2 Templates?

Is there any to create a template in CS2? What I'd like to do is create a reuseable file/template for DVD covers. It would have predefined areas for thumbnails of pictures (kind of like a contact sheet), and area in the middle for text on the spine, and an area on the front for text (description, dates, etc.). I get the feeling that the only way to automate this would be thru an elaborate action or script. Is there an easier way?

Unless you've actually tried creating an "action" that records your template process, you can't be sure that it's too "elaborate".

I've not written very many actions, but I've found one thing to be true.

Things that can be done with actions are usually quite simple and straightforward.

Conversely, things that cannot be done in actions take a lot longer.

However, I would agree that a "script" is not worth the effort - and I'm a programmer

I normally just create mine from scratch, but I save a blank page with guides on it so I know where the spline and printable areas are.
At the office we have some Wedding DVD cover templates that we purchased, but I think each template is only 2 images with one being the background that spans the entire cover and is blurred and the other is a smaller one for the front cover, and I am not sure if those were layered PSD's or if they were actions, as I don't do that task at the office anymore.

Here is an example of a cover I made for the TV Mini Series "Taken" before they released it on DVD,

If I'm understanding your question correctly take a look (purchase S. Kelby book using CS2 for the dig photog) - I believe what you want is covered in the very first chapter page 4 - Creating a contact Sheet for your CD Jewel Case (just modify the deminsions for the DVD Case, no biggie).

SureThing CD/DVD labeler Program is a great program.

http://www.surething.c​om/ST/

I had a CD labeling program that came with pre made CD templtes for PS and other apps,. so yes you can do it.

Don't know if I still have those templates anywhere though...