Illinois Day of Literacy Books 2026

The Illinois Secretary of State is soliciting bids for books to support the 2026 Illinois Day of Literacy program under RFQ B-53782, with bids due August 25, 2026. The procurement covers 5,031 books across 20 titles and grade levels from Early Childhood through Grade 6 & 7, with all books required to be delivered by September 15, 2026 to support statewide literacy programming on September 30.

The scope includes children's literature specified by ISBN, with quantities allocated by grade level: Early Childhood (1,425 copies across four titles), Kindergarten (520 copies across four titles), Grade 1 (653 copies), Grade 2 (591 copies), Grade 3 (611 copies), Grade 4 (533 copies), Grade 5 (415 copies), and Grade 6 & 7 (283 copies). Books must be delivered FOB Destination to either the Illinois State Library (300 South Second Street, Springfield) for straight-box trucks or the Illinois Secretary of State Warehouse (319 North Kline Street, Springfield) for semi-trucks or larger vehicles.

Award will be made to the responsive and responsible bidder submitting the lowest total price, including shipping costs. The contract is a one-time purchase with a maximum term not to exceed ten years including renewals or extensions.

The vendor must carry General Commercial Liability insurance ($1 million per occurrence / $2 million annual aggregate), Auto Liability insurance ($1 million per occurrence), and Workers' Compensation Insurance as required by law, naming the Secretary of State as additionally insured. The vendor must comply with all Illinois certifications, including prevailing wage requirements if applicable, and multiple statutory certifications related to criminal history, conflicts of interest, discrimination practices, and procurement regulations. Invoicing occurs upon contract completion at the Illinois State Library; payment follows the State Prompt Payment Act. A $15 fee will be deducted from the first check for contracts valued at $1,000 or more under the Illinois Procurement Code. Contact Dave Littrell with questions submitted in writing.