030ADV25R0130 Final.pdf

PAGE 1 OF1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE 4. ORDER NO. 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls) 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: % FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR CODE FACILITY CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO. UEI: EFT:

PHONE: FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

ITEM NO. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION (REV. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

See SCHEDULE

030ADV25R0130 06-05-2025

Fekete, Loren (202) 961-5312 07-03-2025 12pm EDT

Contracts and Grants Directorate Library of Congress

101 Independence Ave. SE LA 325 Washington DC 20540-9411

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DELIVERY

See Sections D&F for delivery instructions.

Contracts & Grants Directorate Library of Congress

LA 325

101 Independence Av SE Washington DC 20540-9411

Submit Invoices through https://www.ipp.gov Washington DC 20540

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Fekete, Loren x

030ADV25R0130

Table of Contents

SECTION A

A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

B.1 LC52.212-2 SUPPLEMENTAL LICENSE AGREEMENTS (JUL 2017)

B.2 LC52.216-3 CONTRACT TYPE (JUN 2016)

B.3 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

SECTION C - DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

SECTION F - DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 LC52.215-5 PLACE AND PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE (JAN 2019)

SECTION G - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 LC52.201-3 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION (AUG 2015)

G.2 LC52.204-5 IDENTIFICATION AND BUILDING PASSES (SEP 2024)

G.3 LC52.232-1 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS INVOICE INSTRUCTIONS (DEC 2022)

G.4 LC52.232-2 SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS (JUN 2015)

SECTION H - SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H.1 LC52.203-1 CONTRACTOR PUBLICITY (OCT 2013)

H.2 LC52.204-1 COLLECTIONS SECURITY (DEC 2013)

H.3 LC52.204-2 CONDUCT ON LIBRARY PREMISES (JUL 2021)

H.4 LC52.204-3 INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY (JUL 2024)

H.5 LC52.237-2 CONDUCT OF WORK (MAY 2015)

H.6 LC52.204-4 CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEE FITNESS (SEP 2024)

H.7 LC52.237-1 KEY PERSONNEL (AUG 2014)

H.8 LC52.239-5 SYSTEMS HOSTED BY EXTERNAL HOSTING PROVIDERS (SEP 2018)

H.9 LC52.239-3A ASSESSMENT AND AUTHORIZATION (ALT I) (JAN 2016)

H.10 LC52.239-2 SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT LIFE CYCLE (SEP 2018)

H.11 LC52.239-1 INFORMATION SECURITY (APR 2021)

H.12 LC52.201-1 CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE (COR) APPOINTMENT AND AUTHORITY (JAN 2016)

PART II - CONTRACT CLAUSES

SECTION I - CONTRACT CLAUSES

I.1 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

030ADV25R0130

I.2 LC52.204-6 SPEECH OR DEBATE CLAUSE PRIVILEGE NOTICE AND PROTECTION AGAINST DISCLOSURE (SEP 2017)

I.3 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE

ORDERS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (JAN 2025)

I.4 LC52.204-27 HANDLING OF FEDERAL RECORDS (JUL 2021)

I.5 LC52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS - COMMERCIAL ITEMS (DEV) (FEB 2016)

I.6 LC52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE

ORDERS - COMMERCIAL ITEMS (DEV) (MAY 2015)

I.7 52.217-7 OPTION FOR INCREASED QUANTITY—SEPARATELY PRICED LINE ITEM (MAR 1989)

I.8 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

I.9 LC52.227-1 ASSIGNMENT OF COPYRIGHT TO THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS (DEC 2001)

I.10 LC52.233-1 52.233-1 (DEV) DISPUTES (MAY 2014)

I.11 LC52.232-25 PROMPT PAYMENT (DEV) (JUL 2013)

PART IV - REPRESENTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS

SECTION K - REPRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATIONS AND OTHER STATEMENTS OF OFFERORS

K.1 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

K.2 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (MAY 2024)

SECTION L - INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS, AND NOTICES TO OFFERORS

L.1 LC52.233-2 PROTESTS TO THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS (DEC 2013)

SECTION M - EVALUATION FACTORS FOR AWARD

030ADV25R0130 Section B

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

B.1 LC52.212-2 SUPPLEMENTAL LICENSE AGREEMENTS (JUL 2017)

The Library does not agree to licensing agreements or any other provisions that attempt to: (1) replace an order as the governing contract; (2) establish new or supplemental payment terms; or, (3) affect the legal relationships of the parties.

Notwithstanding any clauses in this contract or order, or the contractual vehicles against which the order is placed, that establish order of precedence, the rights and obligations provided by this contract or order take precedence over the rights and obligations set forth in any licensing agreements provided to the Library.

The Library’s incorporation of a licensing agreement into this contract or order excludes all terms of the licensing agreement that contravene, modify or conflict with the terms of 36 C.F.R. 701.7 available at: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=87a865ce2bd109313a951a3d477895d8&mc=true&node=se36.3.701_17&rgn=div8.

(End of Clause)

B.2 LC52.216-3 CONTRACT TYPE (JUN 2016)

This is a Firm-Fixed-Price contract.

(End of Clause)

B.3 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

0001 1.00 LOT _______________

Data analysis model development in accordance with Section C.

Payment under this CLIN shall be based on acceptance of deliverables identified in the payment schedule in section G.

Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 09-16-2025 POP End: 09-15-2026

0002 1.00 LOT _______________

OPTION: Training Sessions in accordance with Section C.3.4 This option may be exercised at any time during the stated period of performance pursuant to FAR clause 52.217-7. The Period of Performance (PoP) may be unilaterally adjusted to maintain a 12-month PoP at the time of option exercise.

Contract Period: Option 1

POP Begin: 09-16-2025 POP End: 09-15-2026

0003 1.00 LOT _______________

OPTION: CRS-Wide Quarterly Forums/Seminars in accordance with Section C.3.5 This option may be exercised at any time during the stated period of performance pursuant to FAR clause 52.217-7. The Period of Performance (PoP) may be unilaterally adjusted to maintain a 12-month PoP at the time of option exercise.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 09-16-2025 POP End: 09-15-2026

0004 1.00 LOT _______________

OPTION: Reporting on External Data Advances in accordance with Section C.3.6 This option may be exercised at any time during the stated period of performance pursuant to FAR clause 52.217-7. The Period of Performance (PoP) may be unilaterally adjusted to maintain a 12-month PoP at the time of option exercise.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 09-16-2025 POP End: 09-15-2026

0005 1.00 LOT _______________

OPTION: Enhancement of Existing Tools in accordance with Section C.3.7 This option may be exercised at any time during the stated period of performance pursuant to FAR clause 52.217-7. The Period of Performance (PoP) may be unilaterally adjusted to maintain a 12-month PoP at the time of option exercise.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 09-16-2025 POP End: 09-15-2026

0006 1.00 LOT _______________

OPTION: Guides, Instruction and Coaching on Using Section C.3.7 Project Tools in accordance with Section C.3.8 This option may be exercised at any time during the stated period of performance pursuant to FAR clause 52.217-7. The Period of Performance (PoP) may be unilaterally adjusted to maintain a 12-month PoP at the time of option exercise.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 09-16-2025 POP End: 09-15-2026

0007 1.00 LOT _______________

OPTION: Present Data Governance Outline in accordance with Section C.3.9.

This option may be exercised at any time during the stated period of performance pursuant to FAR clause 52.217-7. The Period of Performance (PoP) may be unilaterally adjusted to maintain a 12-month PoP at the time of option exercise.

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 09-16-2025 POP End: 09-15-2026

GRAND TOTAL _______________

030ADV25R0130 Section C

SECTION C - DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK

CRS Data Science and Modernization

1. OVERVIEW AND BACKGROUND

As a service unit of the Library of Congress, the Congressional Research Service (CRS) works exclusively for Congress to perform research, analysis, consultations, and a wide range of services that inform Members of the House and Senate on legislative issues. In recent years, Congress has encouraged CRS to enhance capacity for data driven analysis including utilizing large data sets, both structured and unstructured, and improving the timeliness and efficiency of the analysis. CRS is looking to enhance and expand its existing data analytic capabilities to include consideration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing or other data science (DS) methods. Data governance to integrate more advanced Data Science tools will be an important element of this initiative.

A principal function of the CRS is to provide Congress with accurate, authoritative, nonpartisan, objective information and analyses. CRS has identified the following objectives for a data analytics and modernization initiative.

Objective 1: Interpret and assess analytic studies and methods for Congress. Enhancements should enable more CRS analysts to evaluate and interpret studies in their field, especially those that use artificial intelligence, machine learning, natural language processing or other data science (DS) methods.

Objective 2: Identify, apply and use quantitative methods. Enhancements should enable CRS analysts to apply quantitative methods in their work responding to Congressional requests. This would include identifying available data and methods, ingestion of data, running open-source code developed by others, and developing new models and tools specifically tailored for CRS needs. These models and tools may require application of both traditional and new data science quantitative approaches.

Objective 3: Maintain and modernize existing service to Congress. Ensure enhancements to capabilities do not interfere with the ability to efficiently respond to congressional requests in a timely manner and maintain a standard of authoritative and objective analysis.

CRS’s research structure is divided into five topical Divisions, a multidivisional research support group, and several infrastructure support offices:

American Law Division Domestic Social Policy Division Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division Government and Finance Division Resources, Science, and Industry Division Knowledge Services Group

Legislative Information Systems Infrastructure Support

CRS's core values must be considered in any tools or processes developed under this contract:

Confidentiality Objectivity Non-partisanship Authoritativeness Timeliness

In FY 2023, CRS initiated a pilot to develop five data models as a proof of concept. These models primarily support the Domestic Social Policy Division, Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division and administrative activities. In FY 2024, CRS expanded the work to include two additional models that support the Government and Finance Division and Resources, Science and Industry Division. The FY 2024 contract also provided for the enhancement and expansion of the models developed as part of the FY 2023 contract.

2. SCOPE

The contractor will explore and recommend possible solutions and spearhead the development of permanent, scalable, and modifiable cloud based (or local) tools and models to support the quantitative analytical requirements of CRS. Additionally, the contractor will provide educational tools for informing and advising Library staff about advances in data technology in the market and best practices for data governance.

3. REQUIREMENTS

The contractor shall support enhancements and a greater application of data science tools to analyze and ingest data sets, including big data sets, and also leverage those tools to improve responsiveness and efficiency.

All work under this contract must be free of advocacy, unbiased, accurate, and utilize objective citing, as appropriate. All work must present the assumptions and arguments for an issue, including their strengths and weaknesses. Throughout the contract all statements of fact must be documented, all data must be attributed, and all opinions and conclusions must be so indicated.

There is to be no release or publication of work or dissemination of any information relating to or materials or products developed under the terms of this Contract without prior written authorization of the Director of CRS.

The requests received by the Congressional Research Service from congressional offices and materials received in response to such requests are confidential and are not to be disseminated without prior authorization of the Director either during or after the period covered by this Contract.

3.1 KICK-OFF MEETING

Kick-off Meeting shall be held to introduce the contractor and project team members. The meeting will be used to disseminate background information for projects, what success looks like, and the requirements for success. The Kick-off Meeting shall be held within five days of contract award.

3.2 PROJECT PLAN

The contractor will provide a project plan to include scope, assumptions, constraints, dependencies, project deliverables and project milestones. The project plan will include all necessary requirements and a proposed architecture to create and implement quantitative tools and modeling. The models and tools can be on site, cloud-based format, or both, whichever provides the most efficient and stable environment.

3.3 MONTHLY STATUS REPORTING

The contractor shall provide a written monthly status report to the COR and CRS Data Science Working Group (DSWG), including updated schedules, accomplishments, expected work during the upcoming month, risks/issues, as well as proposed solution(s) to be addressed by the Library COR.

3.4 OPTION: TRAINING SESSIONS

The contractor will provide periodic trainings and workshops to produce savvy data science analysis.

The Trainings will be:

recorded and in a hybrid format with an on-site component for up to 24 attendees and virtual attendance for up to 26 attendees;

monthly after a 60-day phase-in period (and no training in August) for a total of nine trainings;

a minimum of 4 hours cumulatively per month;

targeted to different levels of user experience and skill.

Continuing education will be provided to sustain and develop quantitative analysis skills including both conventional and newer Data Science methods. The focus of the on representative applications of these tools to CRS's analytical work. Specific training topics will be proposed by the contractor to the DSWG for review approximately 3 months prior to the training, with topics for the first two classes being included in the offeror’s proposal. The DSWG will then accept, reject, or request changes to the topic within 10 business days of topic proposal, but no more than 3 months before the scheduled training.

3.5 OPTION: CRS-WIDE QUARTERLY FORUMS/SEMINARS

The contractor will enhance internal communication and collaboration by delivering and facilitating quarterly CRS-wide seminars with internal and external experts to share quantitative policy analysis methods and findings. Each forum shall be approximately 2 hours each and will be recorded. The contractor shall propose two or more forum topics in writing as part of their proposal, and no less than 6 weeks before the other anticipated quarterly forum dates. Quarterly forum dates will be coordinated with the COR. Topic proposals shall be submitted to the COR. The Government will review and approve/reject topics within 10 days of submission. Topics will be solidified with DSWG a month before presentation. Forums may be recorded to be used as a resource for CRS staff via an intranet.

3.6 OPTION: REPORTING ON EXTERNAL DATA ADVANCES

The contractor will monitor current work outside of CRS on quantitative analysis related to policy issues, and using applicable new methods, including machine learning, natural language processing, and artificial intelligence. This will include periodically scanning analytic products and analysis from policy research organizations and other public and or private entities. Findings and recommendations based on these activities will be shared with the steering committee at least twice a year. Contractor shall present findings and recommendations verbally in meetings and documented in email form.

3.7 OPTION: ENHANCEMENT OF EXISTING TOOLS

Contractor shall continue to enhance the user interface of existing CRS Data Science Models or tools as indicated in the following sections. The contractor will consider CRS’s current data profile, tools, and data architecture when proposing the applicability of other tools in the broader data science marketplace.

Enhancements created as part of a project will be functional in a production environment by the end of the contract. Deployment of project models may be staggered, but all model enhancements shall be developed within 9 months of contract award to allow for staff to work with contractor to fully understand the tool.

Any tools and enhancements created as part of this contract shall become property of the Library of Congress and contractor shall not provide them to other entities without approval by the Library.

Below is a brief description of each model and the proposed enhancements and modifications.

Project 1—Department of Defense (DOD) Budget Justification

This data tool extracts text linked to specific relevant lines of spending in DOD and military services released annual budget justification documents (PDFs and spreadsheets). Required enhancements of this tool include expanding the tool to ingest additional budget data (specifically, Congressional Budget Justifications, CBJs) for other executive branch departments and agencies.

Project 2—Historic Appropriations, Department of State and Foreign Operations (SFOPS)

This data tool creates a large database that tracks SFOPS appropriations by account and legislative vehicle over several congresses. Enhancing this tool would include extending further back in history the appropriations language and refining the database to better match spending account line items through time. Expanding the ingestion to other appropriations legislation. In addition, the contractor shall train staff on how the ‘backend’ of the tool functions and how to perform data validation.

Project 3—Workforce Information Systems Data Consolidation

This data tool imports data from Empower personnel records and combines it with CRS specific information (such as CRS job titles) to populate records used in the Consolidated Database for products.

Required enhancements include improving data ingestion and creation of a simple interface/dashboard to generate routine and ad hoc reports.

Project 4—Student Loan Calculator Project

This data tool is coded to efficiently model case simulations of key outcome measures (e.g., dollars paid, dollars forgiven) for user-inputted borrower scenarios under various existing and proposed repayment plan options. Required enhancements include expanding the current dashboard to include greater flexibility for user inputs such as a variety of new repayment plans and borrower demographics.

Project 5—Health Insurance Pricing Project

This model compiles and makes available data for analysis. The data contains in-network rates for covered items and services, which insurers are required to populate by Federal law. Required enhancements include addition of new data sets to the ingestion process and ensuring representation within the existing dashboard which may require updates to support these additional datasets.

Project 6—Text Analysis of Public Comments on Regulations.gov

This model ingests information from the regulations.gov website Application Programming Interface (API) and provides information on overall user sentiment, analysis of key words, and provides a way to represent large amounts of data in a compressed and understandable fashion. Required enhancement includes more robust analysis of the origin of comments and possible categorization based on content.

Project 7—Individual Income Tax Calculator

This model employs the Policy Simulation Library (PSL) Tax-Calculator to develop an “in-house” tax calculator for CRS to respond to congressional requests and to conduct anticipatory research. Required enhancement includes creation of interactive visualizations ready to be integrated into CRS products.

This shall include working with the CRS graphics publication unit on interactive graphics.

3.8 OPTION: GUIDES, INSTRUCTION AND COACHING ON USING 3.7 PROJECT TOOLS

The contractor will provide development support to research divisions and offices for quantitative analytical tools and models, including local tools and cloud-based solutions. Once tools are deployed, the contractor shall conduct a training on using the tool and create documentation that can be accessed by Library staff to understand the usage of the tool. The contractor shall expect to provide tailored, personal user support for CRS personnel utilizing deployed tools. Interactions with employees would be expected on a daily basis.

3.9 OPTION: PRESENT DATA GOVERNANCE OUTLINE

Six (6) months after contract award the contractor will deliver to the DSWG an outline for implementing a data governance structure for the requirements described in Section 3.7 and the requirements described in Section 3.10 and data generally.

The contractor will also recommend a governance framework for the data contained in the CRS maintained Human Resources database and the CRS staff directory. This includes strategies for improving staff data proficiency and generating routine reports. The objective is to create a reliable infrastructure that can serve as an example for other data-centric projects.

3.10 COACHING AND SUPPORT ON SEVEN EXISTING DATA PROJECTS

During FY 2023-2025, seven (7) data models were created. Contractor will be available to provide one-on-one support for these models starting October 2025. The seven tools are described in text below:

Project 1—Department of Defense (DOD) Budget Justification

Data tool extracts text linked to specific relevant lines of spending in DOD and military services released annual budget justification documents (PDFs and spreadsheets). The data tool extracts text linked to the relevant line of spending to allow for queries to put together spending over time and across accounts, services, or other dimensions. The tool allows for rapid extracts related by keywords and equivalence classes. Variations of such a tool shall also be applied to trade and appropriations data. The model also includes a Q&A module that pulls data based on user questions.

Project 2—Historic Appropriations, Department of State and Foreign Operations (SFOPS)

Tools create a large database that tracks SFOPS appropriations by account and legislative vehicle over a significant period of time. Tool functionality includes the ability for CRS to create an extended timeseries version of the appendix. Database has the ability to link account names and bill structures that may have changed over time and across legislation.

Project 3—Workforce Information Systems Data Consolidation

Data tool imports data from Empower personnel records and combines it with CRS specific information (such as CRS job titles) to populate records used in the Consolidated Database for products. The tool is a cloud-based database that returns queries in a number of formats (e.g., excel .csv and data visualization).

Project 4—Student Loan Calculator Project

Tool is coded to efficiently model case simulations of key outcome measures (e.g., dollars paid, dollars forgiven) for user-inputted borrower scenarios under various existing and proposed repayment plan options. Tool models a highly complex set of policies and procedures and produces tables and visualizations that can be distributed to congressional clients.

Project 5—Health Insurance Pricing Project

The model compiles and makes available for analysis data containing in network rates for covered items and services, which insurers are required to populate by Federal law. The data sets are large and frequently updated. The model also contains a dashboards that show trends in health insurance pricing and price variation.

Project 6—Text Analysis of Public Comments on Regulations.gov

Regulations.gov is a site where the US Federal government posts and collects information about proposed Federal regulations and other related documents. The contractor shall create a model that shall provide information on overall user sentiment, analysis of key words, and provide a way to represent large amounts of data in a compressed, but understandable fashion. The intended output is one that would allow CRS to show Congress how the commenters are responding to the proposed items found on the site.

Project 7—Individual Income Tax Calculator

The Policy Simulation Library (PSL) has a Tax-Calculator. The contractor shall use that tool (or a similar creation) and customized it to allow for the other aspects of the model to be modifiable to allow analysis of a greater number of impact analyses on different tax proposals. This additional flexibility would allow CRS to provide Congressional stakeholders with more information on changes to the tax code.

Contractor shall become familiar with the models. Contractor shall keep the models in working order and help CRS with ingestion of new data sets if that becomes necessary.

4. CONTRACT PERFORMANCE

4.1 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS/DELIVERABLES

Paragraph reference

Description of Event/Deliverable Due date

3.2 Draft Project Plan Due with Proposal

3.1 Kick-off meeting- review draft project plan 5 days after contract award

3.2 Final Project Plan/Update Project Plan Within 2 weeks of contract award

3.3 Deliver project status reports By the 5th of each month

3.4 OPTION: Training and workshops for staff Monthly, dates to be coordinated with the

COR

3.5 OPTION: Quarterly Forums Quarterly, dates to be coordinated with the COR

3.6 OPTION: Reporting on External Data

Advances

Twice yearly. 90 and 270 days after option exercise

3.7 OPTION: Enhancements of existing tools Within 270 days of contract award

3.8 OPTION: Guides, Instruction and Coaching

on Using 3.7 Project Tools

Initiated upon deployment of at least one model enhancement until end of contract

3.9 OPTION: Present Data Governance

Outline

6 months after option exercise

3.10 Coaching and support on 7 existing data

models

Support shall begin 30 days into the new contract period and be provided continuously each month thereafter

4.2 QUALITY CONTROL

The contractor shall develop and maintain an effective quality control program (QCP) to ensure services are performed in accordance with this contract. The contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent, and ensure non-recurrence of defective services. The contractor’s quality control program is the means by which it assures itself that its work complies with the requirement of the contract.

The QCP shall provide assurance that the models and tools developed or used by CRS shall first be shown to provide reproducible, accurate and verifiable results by the use of test data, known test cases and other validation. The contractor is responsible for demonstrating and ensuring the accuracy, authoritativeness, and objectivity of provided and recommended tools and models.

The QCP shall be delivered to the steering committee within 30 days of the start of the contract. After acceptance of the quality control plan the contractor shall receive the contracting officer's acceptance in writing of any proposed change to its QC system.

4.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

Work will primarily be performed at the contractor’s facility but contractor personnel may be required by the COR to come to work on-site at the Library’s facility. On-site work will be performed at the James Madison Building of the Library of Congress, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington DC 20540.

4.4 Government furnished property

Government furnished property includes laptops, access to existing software and development environment.

5. SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS

All contractors must be US citizens. All contractors must have a background check as identified in LCFARS LC52.204-4, Contractor Employee Fitness. All contractors must have the specialized knowledge, skills, abilities and educational background to successfully accomplish the tasks required by their position within the scope of this contract.

5.1 KEY PERSONNEL

The following positions are considered key personnel:

Program Manager and Alternate Program Manager

The contractor shall provide a program manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate who shall act for the contractor when the manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the contracting officer. The program manager or alternate shall have full authority to act for the contractor on all contract matters relating to daily operation of this contract. The program manager or alternate shall be available between 8am and 4:30pm Monday thru Friday except Federal holidays or when the government facility is closed for administrative reasons.

The program manager and alternate program manager shall have an advanced degree in Data Science, or equivalent work experience, and have the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to manage and direct the activities of three data teams in support of the requirements of this contract, including but not limited to:

Master's degree or higher in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, or related fields

5-7 years of professional experience Proficient with one or more programming languages (Java, C++, Python, R, etc.)

Demonstrated experience applying data science methods to real-world data problems Experience utilizing visualization tools to take advantage of the growing volume of available information

Data Scientist

Degree in data science, applied mathematics, computer science or related fields Knowledge of relevant quantitative analysis software (SAS, Stata, R, Python) Experience with use of large cross-sectional and time series data Advanced analytical knowledge of data

Experience conducting big data analysis Knowledge of data conditioning Programming and advanced computing Developing algorithms, software and data models Building and executing predictive analytics

Software Engineer

Bachelor's and/or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering or related technical discipline

3+ years of professional software development experience Application architecture and design patterns Experience serving as technical lead throughout the full software development lifecycle, from conception, architecture definition, detailed design, scoping, planning, implementation, testing to documentation, delivery and maintenance is preferred

Knowledge of professional software engineering and best practices for the full software development life cycle, including coding standards, code reviews, source control management, build processes, testing, and operations

Expertise in cloud-based applications, how to use web services efficiently.

Experience with Microsoft 365 office and productivity tools Experience with Microsoft cloud-based data tools Proficiency in object-oriented design Analyzing information General programming skills Experience in Software design, debugging, documentation, testing, & problem solving

Digital Interface/Data visualization specialist

Degree in digital graphic design or data visualization (or equivalent experience) Expertise in beginner friendly software such as Tableau as well as more customizable data visualization software Expertise in graphic design and multimedia support Experience in developing digital interface products such as dashboards, interactive graphic tools, and interactive user interface Expertise in development of optimal user experience design products.

Demonstrated ability to critically analyze technical advantages and limitations of various formats, styles, media, and methods of information reproduction.

030ADV25R0130 Section F

SECTION F - DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 LC52.215-5 PLACE AND PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE (JAN 2019)

Place of Performance: See Section C.4.3

The overall period of performance shall be as stated in section B.

The contractor is responsible for determining its hours of operation in fulfilling the requirements of this contract. The Library’s standard operating hours are from 8:30 AM through 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays. The contractor shall coordinate with the COR for any work to be conducted at Library facilities.

(End of Clause)

030ADV25R0130 Section G

SECTION G - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 LC52.201-3 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION (AUG 2015)

This contract will be administered by:

Library Contracting Officer: Fekete, Loren

Address: Contracts & Grants Directorate

Library of Congress

LA 325

Washington DC 20540-9411

Phone: (202) 961-5312

Email: lfekete@loc.gov

Library Contract Specialist: Fekete, Loren

Address: Contracts & Grants Directorate

Library of Congress

LA 325

Washington DC 20540-9411

Phone: (202) 961-5312

Email: lfekete@loc.gov

Library Contracting Officer Representative:

Address:

Phone:

Email:

Contractor Contract Administrator: Provided at time of award

Address: Provided at time of award

Provided at time of award

Provided at time of award

Provided at time of award

Phone:

Email:

G.2 LC52.204-5 IDENTIFICATION AND BUILDING PASSES (SEP 2024)

(a) The Contractor shall ensure that all contractor employees, both directly employed and subcontracted, contractors and sub-contractors, who will need regular, unescorted access to Library facilities obtain Library-issued photo identification badges. The Library will issue the ID badges without charge. The Contractor shall schedule with the COR time for contractor staff to be available to receive Library ID badges prior to starting work. The Contractor shall accurately maintain a list of contractor employee badge numbers and provide updates to the COR upon request.

(b) The Contractor shall provide instruction and ensure that each contractor employee performing work under this contract visibly displays their Library ID badge at all times they are present on-duty on Library premises. Refusal or repeated neglect to display the Library ID badge may result in removal from non-public Library premises and removal from the contract.

(c) Upon termination, resignation, contract completion, or other event leading to a contractor employee not requiring continued access to Library facilities under this contract, the Contractor is responsible for returning all Government identification, building passes, keys, and other Government property issued to that contractor employee within 5 business days from the termination of that contractor employee’s access. Failure on the part of the Contractor to return these materials may result in the Contractor’s liability for all costs associated with addressing the resultant security breach.

(End of Clause)

G.3 LC52.232-1 LIBRARY OF CONGRESS INVOICE INSTRUCTIONS (DEC 2022)

The Contractor must prepare and submit invoices electronically to: https://www.ipp.gov. The Contractor may submit payment requests using other than electronic means only when alternate procedures are authorized by the contracting officer in writing. Assistance is available via the IPP Help Desk via email at: ippcustomersupport@fiscal.treasury.gov or by commercial telephone at (866) 973-3131. Invoices shall contain the information required in FAR 52.212-4, paragraph (g).

(End of Clause)

G.4 LC52.232-2 SCHEDULE OF PAYMENTS (JUN 2015)

The contractor must submit invoices for payment upon delivery of the items or successful performance of the events identified below pursuant to the standards and acceptance criteria defined in this contract.

SOW

Reference

Deliverable Quantity Unit Firm Fixed Price Per Unit

Total

3.1 Kick-off meeting- review draft

project plan

1 EA $

3.2 Final Project Plan/Update Project

Plan

1 EA $

3.3 Deliver project status reports 12 EA $

3.4 OPTION: Training Sessions 1 LOT $

3.5 OPTION: CRS-Wide Quarterly Forums/Seminars 1 LOT $

3.6 OPTION: Reporting on External Data Advances 1 LOT $

3.7 OPTION: Enhancement of Existing Tools 1 LOT $

3.8

OPTION: Guides, Instruction, and Coaching on Using 3.7 Project Tools 1 LOT $

3.9 OPTION: Present Data Governance Outline 1 LOT $

3.10 Coaching and support on 7 existing data models 11 MO $

Total Firm Fixed Price $

030ADV25R0130 Section H

SECTION H - SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H.1 LC52.203-1 CONTRACTOR PUBLICITY (OCT 2013)

The Contractor, or any entity or representative acting on behalf of the Contractor, may not refer to the equipment or services furnished pursuant to the provisions of this contract in any news release or commercial advertising, or in connection with any news release or commercial advertising, without first obtaining explicit written consent to do so from the Contracting Officer. Should any reference to such equipment or services appear in any news release or commercial advertising issued by or on behalf of the Contractor without the required consent, the Government will consider institution of all remedies available under applicable law.

(End of Clause)

H.2 LC52.204-1 COLLECTIONS SECURITY (DEC 2013)

(1) The Library is a public institution responsible for making its resources (collections and staff) available to the Congress and the American people. To achieve a balance between access and security, the Library requires everyone (staff, visitors, interns, contractors, etc.), to always use due diligence and protect its assets during use.

(2) Physical access to Library collections is limited to staff and/or determined by the host office. In addition, established requesting processes in the various readings rooms must be followed.

(3) Loan Privileges. Contractor employees may obtain loans of Library property for internal use and Library work-related purposes.

i. Loan of Library Property. All loans of Library property must be approved and documented by the host Library Services office. Contractor staff shall obtain a Library “General Pass” (Form LW 12/54 (rev2/88)) for each loan.

ii. Liability – Loss or Damage of Library Property. Use or loan of all Library property and signature on this contract means that the contractor acknowledges and agrees to:

(a) ensure the return all Library property issued in the same condition as borrowed;

(b) accept responsibility and liability for the negligent loss or damage of issued or borrowed Library property; and

(c) ensure that the loaned property is used for Library purposes and not loaned to any other person.

(End of Clause)

H.3 LC52.204-2 CONDUCT ON LIBRARY PREMISES (JUL 2021)

1. Access to Library buildings and grounds is governed by 36 C.F.R. part 702 - Conduct on Library Premises. Contractor staff must comply with these requirements and restrictions and related Library of Congress Regulations and Directives.

2. The Library is committed to preventing and addressing all forms of discriminatory harassment and to ensuring that Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) principles are fundamental to Library culture. Everyone — employees, interns, volunteers, contractors, researchers, and visitors — is expected to help make the Library a respectful environment free from offensive behavior.

a. Library of Congress employees, contractors, interns, volunteers, researchers, patrons, and other visitors have a right to Library facilities that are free from discrimination based on their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age (40 and over), disability, genetic information, union affiliation, political affiliation, or marital status.

b. The Library does not tolerate discrimination – including sexual harassment, other forms of harassment, or a hostile work environment – based on these factors. The Library does not tolerate retaliation against anyone who engages in any form of protected EEO activity.

c. Contractor (including subcontractor) staff alleged to have engaged in discrimination or retaliation in the performance of this contract may be prohibited from entering Library facilities to perform work under their contracts.

Contractors are required to promptly respond to all Library inquiries into allegations of discrimination, and must, in good faith, cooperate with Library investigations. Good faith cooperation includes, but is not limited to, making contractor staff available for:

1. Formal and informal interviews by Library agents investigating allegations of discrimination;

2. Reviewing and signing appropriate affidavits or declarations summarizing statements provided by such contractor staff during the course of an investigation;

3. Producing documents requested by the Library agents conducting the investigation; and

4. Preparing for and providing testimony in depositions or in administrative hearings.

(End of Clause)

H.4 LC52.204-3 INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY (JUL 2024)

(1) Computer Security Policy. The Library requires anyone using or accessing its digital assets (including networks, servers, workstations, systems, data, web pages, and email) to protect them and use them only for official business, and only in accordance with Library regulations and applicable Library bargaining agreements. Unauthorized or inappropriate use may be grounds for termination or other contractual remedy.

(2) Privacy Policy. No one has the right to privacy while using any Library computer system, including internet or email services. Usage may be monitored.

(3) Level of Access. The Library’s Host Office will determine the level of access to the Library’s IT equipment, staff and software needed to successfully perform under this contract. Access may include, for example, email, word processing, internet, and intranet.

(4) Mandatory IT Security Training. Contractor staff must successfully complete mandatory information systems security training and access forms prior to use of or access to any of the Library’s digital assets.

(a) The required training is available on the Library’s learning management system, LOC Learn, at https://www.loc.gov/extranet/cld/. Library staff will provide further instructions upon onboarding.

(b) Contractor staff with access to Library digital assets shall complete the information systems security training annually. The training is available on the Library intranet at https://www.loc.gov/staff/cld/.

(End of Clause)

H.5 LC52.237-2 CONDUCT OF WORK (MAY 2015)

The personnel employed by the Contractor shall be capable employees qualified in this type of work. The Contractor shall be responsible for all damage to Library property by the activities of his employees resulting from these operations.

The Contracting Officer may require removal from work on this contract any employee(s) that may be deemed incompetent, careless, insubordinate, unsuitable, or otherwise objectionable, or whose continued employment is deemed contrary to the public interest or inconsistent with the best interest of or the security of the Library.

(End of Clause)

H.6 LC52.204-4 CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEE FITNESS (SEP 2024)

“Contractor employee fitness” means fitness based on character and conduct for work for or on behalf of the Government as a contractor employee.

Work under this contract is unclassified. However, the Library of Congress shall conduct background investigations of contractor personnel who will have 1) regular, ongoing, unescorted access to the Library’s buildings, grounds, or collections, 2) access to Library information technology systems, and/or 3) access to Library information not available to the public, including information determined to be Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), to ensure they meet basic standards of honesty and trustworthiness pursuant to Library regulations. The Library does not determine the fitness of employees to work for the contractor firm that hires them. The Library’s interest is in determining whether contractor personnel should be granted greater access than the general public to Library facilities, Library information technology systems, and/or non-public Library information.

(1) Any access to non-public Library facilities, Library information technology systems, and/or non-public Library information will require a contractor employee fitness determination. All initial, existing, and reciprocal contractor employee fitness determinations will be subject to continuous vetting. Continuous vetting will vary based on position risk level. An example of continuous vetting is outlined in Trusted Workforce 2.0 (https://www.performance.gov/trusted-workforce/ and https://www.dcsa.mil/Personnel-Security/Continuous- Vetting/).

(2) A favorable contractor employee fitness determination requires completion and successful adjudication of a security application request (release forms, fingerprints, and a full background investigation). To facilitate the fitness determination, the prospective contractor employee shall submit to the Library complete and accurate information as identified on the National Background Investigation Services (NBIS)’s eAPP (https://eapp.nbis.mil) or other system as provided by the Personnel Security Division (PSD). Contractors should anticipate a minimum of two weeks for the process, provided all requested information is timely, accurate and complete and that no adverse information is received. A background investigation generally will require that the candidate has cumulatively resided in the United States for at least three of the past five years. This requirement is subject to certain exceptions assessed on a case-by-case basis by PSD in accordance with established federal personnel vetting standards.

(3) After the contractor employee fitness determination, each contractor employee with a favorably adjudicated background investigation shall be enrolled in and subject to the Library’s continuous vetting process. Enrollment in the Library’s continuous vetting process also requires enrollment in the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Record of Arrest and Prosecution Background (“Rap Back”) program, which provides the Library with notification of any criminal activity by the enrollee. Upon enrollment in Rap Back, the Library shall provide each enrollee with a notification of their rights with respect to the collection and use of their fingerprints and to the accuracy of the information obtained from Rap Back, as well as a copy of the FBI Privacy Act Statement that describes how FBI may use their fingerprint images.

(4) The fact that the Library may conduct background investigations and continuous vetting on assigned contractor personnel does not relieve the contractor of the responsibility to provide qualified, reliable personnel of sound character and conduct. This includes providing contractor personnel who can maintain compliance with the Library’s requirement of a drug-free workplace and federal laws regarding controlled substances (see the Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C.

§ 801 et seq. for the definition of controlled substances). In the event that drug testing is required for a contractor employee to obtain a favorable fitness determination, the contractor will be responsible for bearing the costs of such testing, conducting the testing in a manner consistent with federal vetting standards, which are based on the testing protocols published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and providing the results to the Library.

(5) The Library may require removal of contractor staff from Library facilities and revocation of access to Library information technology systems and non-public Library information if investigative results raise concerns regarding a contractor employee’s fitness or the contractor employee is non-compliant with the Library’s instructions or requests for information during the vetting process.