RFP 1394270 CT State Bookstore Answers.xlsx

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CT State Bookstore Operations
Solicitation number
1394270
Issued by
Hartford County, Connecticut

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This is a Request for Proposal (RFP) response document from Connecticut State Community College (CT State) for bookstore operations services across its 12 campus locations. The RFP solicitation 1394270 seeks proposals from experienced bookstore firms to provide timely, affordable, and equitable access to course materials for all students across the Connecticut State Community College system. Proposals were due August 12, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. EDT, with questions due July 22, 2026. The document contains CT State's draft responses to 100+ bidder questions covering affordability and Open Educational Resources (OER), course materials adoption, enrollment data, financial models, facilities, technology integration, and operational requirements. The RFP increased the proposal narrative page limit to 40 pages, with visuals and appendices excluded from the count. The anticipated contract start date aligns with the conclusion of the current bookstore services agreement, with the exact implementation timeline to be finalized during contract negotiations.

CT State reported system-wide bookstore sales ranging from $6-8 million annually, with approximately 12% of course sections utilizing exclusively OER materials and 23% classified as No/Low Cost sections (under $50 or no required materials). The institution currently utilizes Ellucian Banner for student financial aid administration and learning management through Blackboard, with financial aid integration supporting student purchasing at the bookstore. CT State does not prefer a specific financial model and welcomes guaranteed returns, variable commissions, hybrid models, or alternative commercial structures submitted through the proposal workbook. The institution emphasized student affordability as a core objective while seeking financially sustainable partnerships, valuing proposals that demonstrate innovation alongside proven execution in comparable higher education environments. No current bookstore employees are expected to be retained, facilities are owned by CSCU with improvements expected to remain with the facilities, and the institution projects approximately 6.5% growth in enrolled credit hours over the next five years, with total system enrollment currently exceeding 1.3 million annual credit hours across postsecondary and dual enrollment students.

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Draft Responses RFP 1394270 CT State Boosktore Questions Due 7/22/26 at 2PM

New #CategoryQuestionDRAFT Responses
1Affordability & OERWhat goals does your institution have in place for the use of OER over the next five years?CT State is committed to increasing the adoption of OER and other low-cost, free, and open-access course materials to improve student affordability and reduce course material costs whenever feasible.
2Affordability & OERWhat efforts, if any, have been made to date to drive adoption of digital access?CT State is not aware of any significant efforts to date aimed specifically at increasing adoption of digital access programs.
3Affordability & OERPlease share the current level of OER adoption and whether there are any target goals or expectations for OER usage over the term of the contract?Please refer to the response to Question 5.
4Affordability & OERThe RFP clearly states the continued adoption and use of Open Educational Resource (OER) materials across the college campuses as being a top priority. What percentage of courses currently use OER materials, for each individual campus? Please provide details like the programs/departments adopting these materials and how many sections are included.Please refer to the response to Question 5.
5Course Materials & AdoptionsWhat percentage of courses currently utilize Inclusive Access, OER, and print vs. digital materials?Approximately 12% of sections exclusively utilize OER materials, while approximately 23% of sections qualify as NoLo (No/Low Cost) sections, which include courses using materials costing $50 or less, courses with no required titles, and courses with no store-supplied materials. A comprehensive institution-wide breakdown of print versus digital course materials is not currently available.
6Course Materials & AdoptionsHow does the College currently enforce or encourage faculty adoption deadlines?The College encourages faculty adoption deadlines through a collaborative process involving bookstore textbook managers, academic deans, and department chairs. Regular communication and coordination meetings are used to support timely adoptions and address outstanding needs. Where appropriate, previous term adoptions may be carried forward when course materials remain unchanged, helping ensure continuity and deadlines are met. The College is also open to exploring programs and strategies that can further improve faculty participation and adoption rates.n
7Course Materials & AdoptionsWhat challenges has the College experienced with faculty participation in course material adoption?Faculty feedback has identified opportunities to improve the course material adoption process, including streamlining adoption workflows, improving communication and support, and addressing challenges related to digital course materials and access codes. The College continues to work collaboratively with academic leadership and bookstore partners to encourage timely adoptions and ensure students have access to required materials when needed.
8Course Materials & AdoptionsCan you provide the course materials and course material supply list by course from Fall 2025 and Spring 2026?CT State does not currently have this information available and is unable to provide it at this time.
9Course Materials & AdoptionsWhat percentage of the courses at CT State utilize free OER content?Please refer to the response to Question 5.
10Course Materials & AdoptionsDoes CT State have any direct agreements in place with publishers or other third-party course material providers that operate outside of the current CT State Bookstores?To CT State's knowledge, there are no such agreements with any third-party providers.
11Course Materials & AdoptionsPlease provide a booklist in excel or .csv for the current semester, and as many as three years back, by semester. That list would show: ISBN; Course; Credit hours of each course; Actual enrollment by course.CT State does not currently have this information available and is unable to provide it at this time.
12Course Materials & AdoptionsWhat percentage of courses use a textbook?An institution-wide percentage of courses requiring textbooks is not currently available.
13Course Materials & AdoptionsWhat percentage of courses use courseware (i.e., My Pearson Lab, Cengage Now, Wiley Plus, etc.)?CT State does not currently have this information available and is unable to provide it at this time.
14Course Materials & AdoptionsWhat percentage of courses use OER materials?Please refer to responses to Question 5.
15Course Materials & AdoptionsWill you provide the most recent Text Adoptions book lists -preferably in Google Sheet or Excel format?CT State does not currently have this information available and is unable to provide it at this time.
16Course Materials & AdoptionsApproximately how many courses have no required course materials?Please refer to the response to Question 5.
17Course Materials & AdoptionsWhat % of courses leverage courseware? (i.e., My Pearson Lab, Cengage Now, Wiley Plus, etc)CT State does not currently have this information available and is unable to provide it at this time.
18Course Materials & AdoptionsDo any departments or individual faculty have direct relationships with publishers or other third parties for the adoption and delivery of course materials? If yes, which and please explain the nature of the relationship and services provided.To the College’s knowledge, there are currently no direct agreements with publishers or other third-party course material providers that operate outside of the bookstore arrangement.
19Enrollment & Academic DataAre you including concurrent or dual enrollment in the enrollment figures? If yes, please indicate concurrent or dual enrollment separate from non-dual enrollment figures so we are clear on the specifics of your enrollment categories.Please refer to the response to Question 23.
20Enrollment & Academic DataPlease provide total credit hours per semester for the last 2 semestersPlease refer to the response to Question 23.
21Enrollment & Academic DataPlease clarify if dual credit students currently receive course materials through the bookstore, and if inclusion is within scope for this RFP?All enrolled students, including dual-credit students, are within the scope of this RFP.
22Enrollment & Academic DataWhat is the enrollment growth rate projection for the next 5 years?CT State projects approximately 6.5% growth in enrolled credit hours over the next five years.
23Enrollment & Academic DataPlease provide total credit hour enrollment for the Summer 2026, Spring 2026, Fall 2025, Summer 2025, Spring 2025, Fall 2024 terms.Total credit hour enrollment for the requested terms is shown below. Fall 2024 included 315,009 postsecondary credit hours and 5,551 dual enrollment credit hours;

Spring 2025 included 289,113 postsecondary and 6,245 dual enrollment credit hours;

Summer 2025 included 58,425 postsecondary and 1,917 dual enrollment credit hours;

Fall 2025 included 327,667 postsecondary and 6,546 dual enrollment credit hours;

Spring 2026 included 291,440 postsecondary and 7,311 dual enrollment credit hours; and Summer 2026 currently includes 33,753 postsecondary and 1,480 dual enrollment credit hours, with enrollment still in progress.

24Evaluation & ProcessBeyond the weighted criteria, what will ultimately differentiate the winning proposal?CT State will select the proposal that provides the best overall value. Successful proposals will demonstrate a strong focus on student affordability, proven operational capabilities, innovative and scalable solutions, and the ability to consistently serve all CT State campuses.
25Evaluation & ProcessHow important are innovation and new models vs. proven approaches?CT State values both innovation and proven execution. Proposals should demonstrate innovative approaches that enhance affordability, access, and the student experience, while also providing evidence of successful implementation and operational performance in comparable higher education environments.
26Evaluation & ProcessWhat will finalist presentations focus on most?The RFP allows optional presentations or demonstrations with shortlisted proposers. Proposers should be prepared to discuss their proposed solution, implementation approach, affordability strategy, operational capabilities, and ability to successfully support CT State's objectives and requirements.
27Facilities & LocationsCan you provide details on current store size, layout, and condition?The RFP provides square footage information for each bookstore location. As noted in the RFP, proposers are encouraged to visit the campus stores to assess the layout, condition, and operational environment of each space firsthand.
28Facilities & LocationsAre there planned renovations or openness to redesign?CT State is open to proposals that include store improvements, redesign, right-sizing, or repurposing of existing spaces. There are no planned bookstore renovations at this time.
29Facilities & LocationsIs the College open to store transformation concepts (experiential retail, multi-use space, etc.)?Please refer to the response to Question 28.
30Facilities & LocationsDoes CT State own the current bookstore fixtures?Please refer to the response to Question 34.
31Facilities & LocationsPlease provide a comprehensive set of current photographs of the campus store location(s). Photographs should show the overall condition, layout, and footprint of each space from multiple angles, including: Exterior storefronts, entrances, and surrounding access points; Wide-angle views of the sales floor from several perspectives; Checkout, customer service, office, and administrative areas; Existing shelving, fixtures, displays, and built-in equipment; Backroom, storage, receiving, and inventory-processing areas; Loading areas, delivery access points, and service corridors; Any areas that may require renovation, repair, removal, or reconfiguration; Please clearly identify which areas are shown in each photograph. If available, please also provide current floor plans showing the approximate square footage and designated use of each area.Please refer to the response to Question 27.
32Facilities & LocationsWhat other school expenses must the campus store pay for (utilities, phone, internet trash etc.) and what are those costs?Under the current agreement, CSCU is responsible, at its expense, for plumbing, power, HVAC, and related services and utilities at each bookstore facility. The operator is responsible for maintaining the interior bookstore space, including daily cleaning and removal of trash and recyclable materials to the appropriate CSCU containers.
33Facilities & LocationsAre there any plans to move or alter any of the current bookstore locations?CT State has no active plans to move or alter the current store locations.
34Facilities & LocationsOf the fixtures that currently reside in the bookstore, will all remain for use by a new partner? Is there any unamortized expense the new partner must absorb upon commencing operations?Store Improvements and permanently installed fixtures are owned by CSCU and would be expected to remain with the facilities. The College is not currently aware of any requirements for a new bookstore partner to assume unamortized facility investment costs upon commencement of operations.
35Facilities & LocationsWhat other school expenses must the campus store pay for (utilities, phone, internet, trash etc.) and what are those costs?Please refer to the response to Question 32.
36Facilities & LocationsAre there any active plans to move or alter any of the current bookstore locations?Please refer to the response to Question 33.
37Facilities & LocationsWhen was the last time the campus stores were renovated?Information regarding the most recent renovation dates for the campus stores is not currently available.
38Financial AidHow mature is the current bookstore credit (voucher) system, and what challenges exist today?Information regarding the maturity of the current bookstore credit (voucher) program and any associated challenges is not currently available.
39Financial AidWhat is the current process for CT State students to utilize their financial aid funds through the current CT State Bookstores?Please refer to the response to Question 42.
40Financial AidDoes CT State utilize a Campus Card that can be used to purchase materials in the bookstores? If so, what company is used to manage it?CT State does not currently utilize a campus card program for the purchase of course materials or other bookstore items.
41Financial AidPlease describe how students utilize their financial aid in the campus store and if there are any restrictions.Please refer to the response to Question 42.
42Financial AidPlease describe how students utilize their financial aid in the campus store and if there are any restrictions. Please specify with your technical team whether the college uses a specific Student Financial Aid integration/software/module. An example is Campus Card by CBORD OR TrimDataCT State utilizes Ellucian Banner for student financial aid administration. The current process includes a one-way data feed between Banner and the bookstore system to support student financial aid purchasing.
43Financial AidDo you utilize a campus card program for the purchase of materials in the bookstore? If yes, what company do you use to manage it?Please refer to the response to Question 40.
44Financial Model & Commercial TermsAre there preferred models (e.g., guaranteed return vs. variable commission vs. hybrid)?No specific financial model is preferred. Proposers may submit a guaranteed return, variable commission, hybrid model, or other commercial structure through Attachment B.
45Financial Model & Commercial TermsWould CT State be open to paying a management fee to the vendor to help subsidize the on-campus retail store operation costs?Please refer to the response to Question 40.
46Financial Model & Commercial TermsWhat auxiliary revenue arrangements are currently in place for the bookstore, including commissions, signing bonuses, scholarships, or other financial incentives, and what is the timing of those payments?Rather than prescribing a specific financial structure for future operations, CT State is interested in understanding each proposer’s recommended commercial model, including any proposed commissions, guarantees, investments, scholarships, signing incentives, revenue-sharing approaches, and payment schedules. Proposers should describe the financial structure they believe will provide the greatest value to the College and its students.
47Inclusive / Equitable AccessAre there existing institutional initiatives around day-one access or affordability programs?Please refer to the response to Question 49.
48Inclusive / Equitable AccessWill the College consider student billing for auto-fulfillment of course materials and course material supplies?Please refer to the response to Question 51.
49Inclusive / Equitable AccessDoes CT State have any Inclusive Access course material adoptions? If so, how many courses have inclusive access adoptions? An Inclusive Access program is a course-by-course model in which individual faculty choose whether their course participates. For participating courses, required materials are provided to students at a negotiated rate, in a digital format unless students choose to opt out. Courses that do not participate in the Inclusive Access program are not affected, and students enrolled in those courses obtain their required materials through their own preferred purchasing method.CT State does not currently have an Inclusive Access program in place.
50Inclusive / Equitable AccessAre you currently running Inclusive Access (IA) programs? If yes, how many courses/sections are using IA materials? What is the annual sales volume of IA? Is the bookstore currently the exclusive conveyor of IA?Please refer to the response to Question 49.
51Inclusive / Equitable AccessIs the institution interested in an EA program that would provide all students with physical first course materials on day 1 for a fee that would be included in tuition.Any proposed program would require further evaluation to assess affordability, student impact, operational requirements, participation structure, and alignment with institutional goals and policies. Proposers are encouraged to describe their recommended approach, implementation methodology, and strategies for maximizing student value while maintaining flexibility and affordability.
52Inclusive / Equitable AccessRecognizing that an Access Program has not yet been introduced, would there be interest from any campus in committing to a pilot?Please refer to the response to Question 51.
53Inclusive / Equitable AccessAre books included in tuition or a separate billed fee?Please refer to the response to Question 49.
54Inclusive / Equitable AccessWhich, if any, of the campuses have implemented an inclusive access program? Please provide details like the programs/departments adopting these materials and how many sections are included.Please refer to the response to Question 49.
55Inclusive / Equitable AccessAre Early College/Dual Enrollment students eligible for any current inclusive access program? Would Early College/Dual Enrollment students be eligible to participate in a campus wide access program if CT State CC elected to implement one? If not, please separate the Early College/Dual Enrollment credit hours from the totals requested above.Please refer to the response to Question 49.
56Inclusive / Equitable AccessWould the Connecticut State Community College systems office be interested in approving different access models and allowing individual campuses to opt into them at will?Please refer to the response to Question 51.
57Merchandise, Events & ServicesAre there any limitations on convenience offerings for food or beverage?CT State is generally open to convenience food and beverage offerings that enhance the student experience. Specific approvals and any campus-specific requirements would be addressed during implementation and contract negotiations.
58Merchandise, Events & ServicesWhat is the bookstore’s role in selling/distributing graduation caps and gowns?Please refer to the response to Question 61.
59Merchandise, Events & ServicesAre there any limitations on convenience offerings for food or beverage?Please refer to the response to Question 57.
60Merchandise, Events & ServicesAre there any limitations on graduation related sales?CT State is not aware of any specific limitations on graduation-related sales at this time.
61Merchandise, Events & ServicesWhat role does the bookstore play for commencement at each of the individual campuses?The bookstore supports commencement activities through the sale and distribution of graduation-related merchandise and services, including regalia, diploma frames, class rings, announcements, and other commencement-related items.
62Merchandise, Events & ServicesOutside of day-to-day store operations, what types of services does the current campus bookstore operator provide at each of the individual campuses?The operator may support campus events, orientations, open houses, student organizations, and other community engagement activities through merchandising, event support, promotions, and related services.
63Operating Model & ScopeAre there anticipated changes to exclusive campus vendor agreements that may impact operations?There are currently no anticipated changes to existing exclusive campus vendor agreements that are expected to materially impact bookstore operations.
64Operating Model & ScopeHow open is the College to reimagining the bookstore as a broader campus service hub?CT State is open to concepts that broaden and modernize the role of the campus store, provided the proposed model supports affordability, access to course materials, service quality, and consistency across CT State locations.
65Operating Model & ScopeIs CT State open to self-operating spirit stores (apparel, merchandise, sundry items, etc.) with an Online Bookstore vendor providing all student-purchased materials shipped directly to the campus bookstores for student pickup?CT State expects the selected partner to maintain a physical bookstore presence on campus to support student access, service, and engagement. While online fulfillment and other innovative operating models may be incorporated into a proposed solution, proposals should include an on-campus presence that adequately supports the needs of students, faculty, and staff across the CT State system.
66Operating Model & ScopeWould CT State be open to a full-service online solution where the apparel, merchandise, and course materials are all sold through an interactive online platform with no permanent physical presence on campus?Please refer to the response to Question 65.
67Operating Model & ScopeAre there any programs run by the incumbent bookstore provider that you would like to see continue that are outside of the normal operations of the college bookstore?Please refer to the response to Question 62.
68Operating Model & ScopeIs there any other provider of campus store services or merchandise sales the school works with? (Off campus store, athletic website, publisher content provider etc.)The bookstore operator serves as the exclusive provider of merchandise and services traditionally offered through a college bookstore, including course materials, school supplies, emblematic merchandise, graduation products, textbook buyback, and related services.
69Operating Model & ScopeDo any of the campuses host annual campus or community events that the current bookstore plays an integral role in supporting?Please refer to the response to Question 62.
70Operating Model & ScopeWould Connecticut State Community College be interested in offering different store operation models at different campus stores?CT State values a consistent student experience across all campuses, particularly with respect to affordability, access to course materials, service levels, pricing, and reporting. While proposers may recommend variations in store operations based on campus-specific needs, any differences should support the overall objectives of the RFP and maintain a cohesive system-wide approach.
71Operating Model & ScopeIn the RFP Section 2.2 Page 5: Campus Bookstore Locations – Are any CT State CC locations open to self-operating a physical spirit/general merchandise store on their campus?Please refer to the response to Question 65.
72Operating Model & ScopeIn the RFP Section 2.2 Page 5: Campus Bookstore Locations – Would any CT State CC location consider partnering with two separate vendors to provide course material operations and retail general merchandise services, if it is deemed more beneficial than a single vendor?CT State is open to reviewing alternative operating models if a proposer believes a multi-vendor approach would provide greater value to the College and its students.
73Proposal LogisticsWould CT State consider increasing the proposal page limit to 40 pages, excluding visual and supporting materials from the page count, to allow respondents to more fully describe their proposed solution? An increased page limit would enable respondents to provide more comprehensive information, allowing the evaluation committee to better understand the proposed approach, capabilities and overall value.Yes. CT State will increase the proposal narrative page limit to 40 pages. Visuals, appendices, and supporting materials may be excluded from the page count.
74Reporting & KPIsAre there reporting tools or BI platforms currently used that we should align with?CT State currently utilizes Ellucian Banner as its ERP platform and Blackboard as its learning management system. The College also uses Power BI for dashboarding and reporting; however, there are currently no direct data integrations between Power BI and bookstore systems.
75Reporting & KPIsWho are the primary users of bookstore data?Primary users are expected to include CT State system leadership, campus leadership, finance, academic affairs, and other administrative stakeholders responsible for course materials, affordability, operations, and contract management.
76Reporting & KPIsWhat are the most important KPIs the College wants visibility into?CT State is interested in understanding the key performance indicators (KPIs) respondents believe are most appropriate for measuring the success of their proposed operating model.
77Sales & Financial DataI see that system wide sales range between $6-8 million. Do you have sales broken down by individual location for the last two complete fiscal years? Top line would work for now but broken down by category would be what we really need. Your current operator should have this data readily available if each location has its own assigned store number and I’d expect a similar request from all other non-incumbent bidders.Refer to the "Sales by Location" tab for historical top-line sales by campus location for FY2022–FY2025. Detailed sales data by category (e.g., course materials, apparel, technology, convenience, etc.) is not currently available and cannot be provided at this time.
78Sales & Financial DataPlease provide a category breakdown of textbook sales information from the past few years, including new, used, rental, and digital by individual campus location.Please refer to the response to Question 77.
79Sales & Financial DataPlease provide a category breakdown of retail sales information from the past few years, including, but not limited to, trade books, clothing, computers/technology, convenience, gifts, etc., by individual campus location.Please refer to the response to Question 77.
80Sales & Financial DataWhat percentage of overall sales in the current CT State Bookstores came from financial aid?CT State is unable to determine at this time what percentage of overall bookstore sales were attributable to financial aid purchases.
81Sales & Financial DataAre there any sales reflected in the historical sales numbers that were a result of a one-time grant or other funding that will not occur in the future?CT State is unable to determine at this time whether historical sales include any one-time grant-funded or other non-recurring purchases.
82Sales & Financial DataPlease provide gross sales by category for the past three years across the campuses or commission reports from your current partner excel or .csv preferred.Please refer to the response to Question 77.
83Sales & Financial DataPlease provide the last three years’ worth of sales data including category breakdowns, by location. (new books, used books, digital, rental, clothing, gift, convenience, technology etc.)Please refer to the response to Question 77.
84Sales & Financial DataFor each individual campus store location, for the past two full fiscal years, please provide sales broken down by category: For course materials – new, used, rental, digital, inclusive access. For general merchandise – trade books/general reading, supplies, course required supplies, convenience, technology (w/ Apple & non-Apple separated), graduation, non-emblematic products, emblematic clothing, emblematic gifts, backpacksPlease refer to the response to Question 77.
85Sales & Financial DataIn the RFP Section 2.3 Page 6: Historical Sales – Please provide a breakdown of the historical sales, by campus, for the last year, and separated by category (New Text, Used Text, Book Rentals, Digital Text, Trade, Supplies, Electronics, Clothing, Gifts, Convenience, Graduation Regalia, etc.)Please refer to the response to Question 77.
86StaffingAre there current bookstore employees expected to be retained or transitioned?No.
87StaffingWhat are expectations around student employment levels?The selected operator will be expected to maintain adequate staffing levels, including student employees as appropriate, to meet the service and operational requirements outlined in the RFP. CT State does not prescribe specific student employment levels and encourages proposers to describe the staffing model they believe best supports their proposed solution.
88StaffingIs it the desire of the institution for the chosen vendor to retain the bookstore’s current full-time employees? If so, please provide a listing of the current full-time employees and each of their attributable annual salaries.Please refer to the response to Question 86.
89StaffingAre the contracted/unionized employees at Connecticut State Community College’s campus stores required to stay on with the current vendor, if the contract is extended?Please refer to the response to Question 86.
90Strategy & PrioritiesHow does the College define success for this partnership in years 1, 3, and 5 (cost reduction, engagement, revenue, satisfaction, etc.)?CT State defines success as improving student access and affordability, delivering a consistent and modern bookstore experience, and maintaining strong operational performance across all campuses. Proposers are encouraged to recommend measurable success metrics aligned with their proposed solution.
91Strategy & PrioritiesAre there specific pain points with the current bookstore model that prompted this RFP?This RFP is not being issued in response to specific deficiencies or pain points with the current bookstore model. Rather, CT State is seeking a partner that can support its goals related to student affordability, access to course materials, consistent service delivery across campuses, and continued innovation in bookstore operations.
92Strategy & PrioritiesHow does the bookstore fit into the broader student experience strategy on campus?Please refer to the response to Question 90.
93Strategy & PrioritiesHow does the College prioritize student affordability vs. institutional revenue in evaluating proposals?Student affordability and access to course materials are core objectives of this procurement. While CT State seeks a financially sustainable partnership, proposals will be evaluated on overall value, including student cost, OER support, service quality, operational capabilities, and financial terms.
94Strategy & PrioritiesWhat role does the bookstore currently play in campus branding and community engagement?The bookstore plays an important role in campus branding and community engagement by providing CT State-branded merchandise, supporting campus events and student organizations, participating in orientations and other community activities, and maintaining a visible presence across campus and online.
95Strategy & PrioritiesIf a partner could significantly reduce student costs while modernizing the experience, how would that be valued relative to commission return?Student affordability is a key objective of this procurement and will be considered alongside financial return, service quality, operational effectiveness, and overall value. CT State is seeking the solution that best advances its priorities rather than evaluating proposals based solely on commission revenue.
96Strategy & PrioritiesWhat would make this partnership feel transformational rather than simply operational?A transformational partnership would measurably improve student access and affordability, expand the use of OER and other low-cost course-material options, modernize the bookstore experience, provide consistent service across campuses, and deliver actionable reporting and partnership governance.
97Strategy & PrioritiesWhat are the current challenges with your existing bookstore operations that you would like to see addressed?Please refer to the response to Question 91.
98Strategy & PrioritiesDoes CSCU view the course materials division as a revenue center or is student cost savings a priority (e.g., no mark-up by the institution with all savings passed to students)Student cost savings and affordability are stated priorities of this procurement, along with a sustainable operating model. CT State will evaluate proposals based on overall value, including financial terms, student cost impact, service quality, and alignment with RFP requirements.
99Strategy & PrioritiesHas the institution conducted any surveys or internal reviews to understand student preferences around course material delivery formats? What student support issues or challenges have been most common?CT State has conducted surveys and stakeholder outreach to better understand bookstore needs and preferences. Feedback consistently highlighted affordability, access to course materials, timely availability, and a convenient purchasing experience as key priorities. Respondents also identified opportunities to enhance service consistency, communication, and overall support for students across campuses.
100Strategy & PrioritiesWhat are the top three priorities that Connecticut State Community College has for this RFP?CT State's top priorities are: (1) universal student access to required course materials across all campuses and online; (2) improved affordability through OER and other cost-saving strategies; and (3) consistent, high-quality bookstore services supported by strong reporting, communication, and account management.
101Technology & IntegrationWhat SIS and LMS platforms are currently in use, and are there any known integration limitations?CT State's learning management system is Blackboard (currently transitioning to Blackboard Ultra). Banner is the student information system.
102Technology & IntegrationAre there existing APIs or middleware already in place for vendor integrations?CT State currently maintains a combination of direct integrations, LTI connections, and file transfer processes to support data exchange between Blackboard, Ellucian Banner, and bookstore operations.
103Technology & IntegrationWhat level of real-time data exchange is required vs. preferred?CT State does not require real-time data exchange as part of the proposed solution.
104Technology & IntegrationWhat is CT State’s Learning Management System?Please refer to the response to Question 101.
105Transition & TimelineHow quickly can data files be provided for the purpose of setting up datal file transfers?If this question pertains to the submission of proposal materials or related RFP responses, all responses should be submitted electronically to the designated contact identified in the RFP.
106Transition & TimelineWhat concerns does the College have regarding transition risk (inventory, systems, staffing)?CT State's primary transition priority is uninterrupted access to course materials and bookstore services. Proposers should provide a detailed transition plan addressing inventory, systems integration, staffing, communications, implementation governance, and service continuity.
107Transition & TimelineCan you clarify expectations around inventory buyout terms and valuation methodology?CT State anticipates that any inventory buyout methodology will be clearly defined as part of the transition plan.
108Transition & TimelineIs there currently any unamortized amount that would be due should there be a change in vendors?The College is not currently aware of any unamortized amount that a new bookstore partner would be required to assume upon commencement of operations. Any transition-related financial considerations would be addressed during contract negotiations and transition planning, as applicable.
109Transition & TimelineAre there any unamortized dollars spent on past capital investment projects that would be due to the current contractor by the College should you end your current partnership? If so, how much, and would the College look to the new contractor to pay this sum?Please refer to the response to Question 108.
110Transition & TimelineWhich term would the new bookstore partner begin serving the CT State campus populations?The anticipated start of operations will align with the conclusion of the current bookstore services agreement. The exact start date and implementation timeline will be finalized by CT State and reflected in the final agreement.
111Transition & TimelineWhat is the target start date for operations under the new contract?The anticipated start of operations will align with the conclusion of the current bookstore services agreement. The exact start date and implementation timeline will be finalized by CT State and reflected in the final agreement.

Sales by Location

CityStore NumberPlatformMonth / YearFiscal YearSalesOtherExemptComm Sales
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainJul-21FY22$48,354$0-$3,892$44,462
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainAug-21FY22$293,111$0-$10,077$283,034
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainSep-21FY22$62,892$0-$8,214$54,679
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainOct-21FY22$5,381$0-$390$4,991
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainNov-21FY22$17,061$0-$6,450$10,611
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainDec-21FY22$47,756$0-$3,817$43,939
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainJan-22FY22$252,057$0-$8,848$243,209
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainFeb-22FY22$28,333$0-$4,761$23,572
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainMar-22FY22$7,640$0-$195$7,445
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainApr-22FY22$6,259$0-$1,462$4,797
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainMay-22FY22$15,787$0-$961$14,827
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807MainJun-22FY22$30,510$0-$11,202$19,308
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainJul-21FY22$47,679$0-$349$47,330
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainAug-21FY22$274,571$0-$2,771$271,800
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainSep-21FY22$109,999$0-$19,114$90,885
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainOct-21FY22$11,678$0$0$11,678
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainNov-21FY22$3,605$0-$376$3,229
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainDec-21FY22$12,733$0-$246$12,487
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainJan-22FY22$211,397$0-$19$211,378
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainFeb-22FY22$52,355$0-$1,330$51,025
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainMar-22FY22$8,053$0-$50$8,003
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainApr-22FY22$13,369$0-$96$13,273
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainMay-22FY22$15,713$0-$63$15,651
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809MainJun-22FY22$16,998$0-$458$16,540
ManchesterStore: 0814MainJul-21FY22$35,128$0-$8,083$27,045
ManchesterStore: 0814MainAug-21FY22$213,967$0-$2,066$211,901
ManchesterStore: 0814MainSep-21FY22$54,984$0-$4,657$50,327
ManchesterStore: 0814MainOct-21FY22$15,791$0-$686$15,105
ManchesterStore: 0814MainNov-21FY22$5,630$0-$1,008$4,622
ManchesterStore: 0814MainDec-21FY22$35,199$0-$581$34,618
ManchesterStore: 0814MainJan-22FY22$195,532$0-$5,738$189,793
ManchesterStore: 0814MainFeb-22FY22$36,900$0-$1,237$35,663
ManchesterStore: 0814MainMar-22FY22$11,145$0-$1,785$9,360
ManchesterStore: 0814MainApr-22FY22$14,092$0-$1,690$12,402
ManchesterStore: 0814MainMay-22FY22$24,623$0-$9,565$15,058
ManchesterStore: 0814MainJun-22FY22$23,297$0-$1,056$22,241
HousatonicStore: 0819MainJul-21FY22$17,604$0-$655$16,950
HousatonicStore: 0819MainAug-21FY22$249,844$0-$31,013$218,831
HousatonicStore: 0819MainSep-21FY22$87,649$0-$12,367$75,282
HousatonicStore: 0819MainOct-21FY22$10,630$0-$1,036$9,594
HousatonicStore: 0819MainNov-21FY22$5,512$0-$1,192$4,320
HousatonicStore: 0819MainDec-21FY22$12,078$0-$413$11,665
HousatonicStore: 0819MainJan-22FY22$216,864$0-$24,070$192,794
HousatonicStore: 0819MainFeb-22FY22$61,480$0-$13,802$47,677
HousatonicStore: 0819MainMar-22FY22$6,209$0-$448$5,760
HousatonicStore: 0819MainApr-22FY22$2,951$0-$973$1,978
HousatonicStore: 0819MainMay-22FY22$22,375$0-$8,671$13,705
HousatonicStore: 0819MainJun-22FY22$12,287$0-$689$11,597
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainJul-21FY22$3,638$0-$472$3,166
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainAug-21FY22$107,864$0-$7,003$100,860
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainSep-21FY22$63,822$0-$2,436$61,386
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainOct-21FY22$12,592$0-$2,066$10,526
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainNov-21FY22$11,945$0-$436$11,509
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainDec-21FY22$12,244$0-$1,277$10,967
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainJan-22FY22$72,523$0-$1,361$71,161
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainFeb-22FY22$49,228$0-$4,584$44,644
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainMar-22FY22$16,974$0-$299$16,675
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainApr-22FY22$4,221$0-$333$3,887
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainMay-22FY22$15,597$0-$1,079$14,519
AsnuntuckStore: 0820MainJun-22FY22$23,383$0-$274$23,109
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainJul-21FY22$84,287$0-$6,551$77,736
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainAug-21FY22$161,832$0-$47,466$114,366
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainSep-21FY22$45,950$0-$6,403$39,548
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainOct-21FY22$10,404$0-$501$9,903
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainNov-21FY22$6,926$0-$1,137$5,789
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainDec-21FY22$29,913$0-$7,243$22,670
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainJan-22FY22$143,695$0-$42,505$101,191
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainFeb-22FY22$21,128$0-$4,631$16,497
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainMar-22FY22$8,566$0-$235$8,331
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainApr-22FY22$5,188$0-$1,755$3,433
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainMay-22FY22$25,312$0-$7,476$17,837
Capital/WoodlandStore: 0825MainJun-22FY22$20,055$0-$481$19,574
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainJul-21FY22$14,293$0-$1,604$12,689
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainAug-21FY22$59,528$0-$3,275$56,253
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainSep-21FY22$21,027$0-$6,674$14,353
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainOct-21FY22$3,375$0-$1,285$2,090
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainNov-21FY22$3,964$0-$1,784$2,180
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainDec-21FY22$17,113$0-$2,654$14,459
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainJan-22FY22$54,973$0-$4,334$50,639
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainFeb-22FY22$7,609$0-$3,730$3,878
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainMar-22FY22$2,461$0-$686$1,776
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainApr-22FY22$5,903$0-$1,825$4,078
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainMay-22FY22$3,448$0-$52$3,396
Northwestern CTStore: 0828MainJun-22FY22$2,358$0-$21$2,338
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainJul-21FY22$19,903$0-$1,685$18,218
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainAug-21FY22$197,979$0-$11,841$186,138
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainSep-21FY22$29,464$0-$4,076$25,389
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainOct-21FY22$3,881$0-$785$3,096
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainNov-21FY22$3,874$0-$493$3,380
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainDec-21FY22$26,057$0-$2,110$23,947
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainJan-22FY22$154,438$0-$6,461$147,978
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainFeb-22FY22$17,950$0-$2,985$14,965
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainMar-22FY22$3,985$0-$129$3,856
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainApr-22FY22$3,147$0-$47$3,100
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainMay-22FY22$27,184$0-$1,108$26,076
Middlesex/CTStore: 0842MainJun-22FY22$19,539$0-$6,048$13,491
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainJul-21FY22$63,578$0-$4,177$59,400
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainAug-21FY22$337,065$0-$18,185$318,880
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainSep-21FY22$78,389$0-$15,913$62,475
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainOct-21FY22$24,934$0-$541$24,393
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainNov-21FY22$13,604$0-$1,196$12,408
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainDec-21FY22$18,995$0-$2,622$16,373
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainJan-22FY22$159,940$0-$8,595$151,345
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainFeb-22FY22$81,242$0-$3,402$77,840
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainMar-22FY22$64,720$0-$3,096$61,624
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainApr-22FY22$9,847$0-$2,256$7,591
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainMay-22FY22$26,494$0-$904$25,590
Tunxis CCStore: 1167MainJun-22FY22$65,494$0-$1,197$64,297
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainJul-21FY22$47,984$0-$1,894$46,090
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainAug-21FY22$285,172$0-$17,696$267,476
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainSep-21FY22$87,124$0-$8,700$78,425
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainOct-21FY22$9,152$0-$1,299$7,853
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainNov-21FY22$5,583$0-$1,472$4,110
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainDec-21FY22$11,975$0-$63$11,912
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainJan-22FY22$207,597$0-$6,810$200,787
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainFeb-22FY22$54,745$0-$7,413$47,333
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainMar-22FY22$8,769$0-$347$8,422
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainApr-22FY22$5,940$0-$75$5,865
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainMay-22FY22$21,369$0-$298$21,071
Norwalk CCStore: 1168MainJun-22FY22$27,681$0-$438$27,244
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainJul-21FY22$56,927$0-$6,400$50,528
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainAug-21FY22$177,564$0-$14,438$163,126
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainSep-21FY22$89,264$0-$15,234$74,031
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainOct-21FY22$7,642$0-$499$7,143
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainNov-21FY22$2,741$0-$1,007$1,734
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainDec-21FY22$27,377$0-$3,019$24,359
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainJan-22FY22$169,546$0-$13,273$156,273
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainFeb-22FY22$34,399$0-$5,236$29,163
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainMar-22FY22$5,214$0-$807$4,408
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainApr-22FY22$5,233$0-$112$5,120
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainMay-22FY22$16,946$0-$173$16,773
Naugatuck Valley CCStore: 1169MainJun-22FY22$29,724$0-$164$29,560
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainJul-21FY22$10,319$0-$971$9,348
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainAug-21FY22$52,538$0-$1,579$50,958
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainSep-21FY22$14,950$0-$1,092$13,857
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainOct-21FY22$2,754$0-$326$2,428
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainNov-21FY22$987$0-$47$940
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainDec-21FY22$5,005$0-$689$4,317
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainJan-22FY22$48,291$0-$2,025$46,266
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainFeb-22FY22$17,446$0-$1,918$15,528
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainMar-22FY22$2,027$0-$34$1,992
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainApr-22FY22$1,134$0-$41$1,092
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainMay-22FY22$2,472$0$0$2,472
Quinebaug Valley CCStore: 1170MainJun-22FY22$2,800$0$0$2,800
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalJul-21FY22$9,384$0$0$9,384
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalAug-21FY22$27,475$0$0$27,475
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalSep-21FY22$3,612$0$0$3,612
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalOct-21FY22$193$0$0$193
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalNov-21FY22$481$0$0$481
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalDec-21FY22$7,774$0$0$7,774
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalJan-22FY22$25,018$0$0$25,018
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalFeb-22FY22$1,500$0$0$1,500
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalMar-22FY22$241$0$0$241
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalApr-22FY22$87$0$0$87
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalMay-22FY22$2,002$0$0$2,002
Three Rivers-MoheganStore: 0807DigitalJun-22FY22$1,417$0$0$1,417
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalJul-21FY22$7,976$0$0$7,976
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalAug-21FY22$12,597$0$0$12,597
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalSep-21FY22$6,543$0$0$6,543
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalOct-21FY22$498$0$0$498
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalNov-21FY22$63$0$0$63
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalDec-21FY22$1,300$0$0$1,300
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalJan-22FY22$13,463$0$0$13,463
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalFeb-22FY22$10,926$0$0$10,926
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalMar-22FY22$152$0$0$152
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalApr-22FY22$53$0$0$53
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalMay-22FY22$1,231$0$0$1,231
Gateway/Long WharfStore: 0809DigitalJun-22FY22$672$0$0$672
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalJul-21FY22$2,507$0$0$2,507
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalAug-21FY22$25,354$0$0$25,354
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalSep-21FY22$4,581$0$0$4,581
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalOct-21FY22$570$0$0$570
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalNov-21FY22$499$0$0$499
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalDec-21FY22$2,502$0$0$2,502
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalJan-22FY22$20,380$0$0$20,380
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalFeb-22FY22$2,272$0$0$2,272
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalMar-22FY22$979$0$0$979
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalApr-22FY22$178$0$0$178
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalMay-22FY22$1,732$0$0$1,732
ManchesterStore: 0814DigitalJun-22FY22$1,415$0$0$1,415
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalJul-21FY22$313$0$0$313
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalAug-21FY22$12,729$0$0$12,729
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalSep-21FY22$4,045$0$0$4,045
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalOct-21FY22$518$0$0$518
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalNov-21FY22$285$0$0$285
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalDec-21FY22$885$0$0$885
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalJan-22FY22$12,354$0$0$12,354
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalFeb-22FY22$2,223$0$0$2,223
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalMar-22FY22$243$0$0$243
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalApr-22FY22$672$0$0$672
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalMay-22FY22$923$0$0$923
HousatonicStore: 0819DigitalJun-22FY22$345$0$0$345
AsnuntuckStore: 0820DigitalJul-21FY22$121$0$0$121
AsnuntuckStore: 0820DigitalAug-21FY22$5,062$0$0$5,062
AsnuntuckStore: 0820DigitalSep-21FY22$1,784$0$0$1,784
AsnuntuckStore: 0820DigitalOct-21FY22$242$0$0$242

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File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .