RFP # GCPL-2505 Server Virtualization

The Gwinnett County Public Library is seeking proposals for a comprehensive server virtualization refresh and migration project through RFP # GCPL-2505. The procurement involves replacing the existing VMware vSphere 6.5 Essentials environment with a Proxmox VE-based platform, encompassing external shared storage and professional services for migration, hardening, documentation, and knowledge transfer. The project will span two sites: a primary headquarters data center and a disaster recovery site, with specific technical requirements including three compute hosts at HQ in a cluster and one compute host at the DR site. Proposed solutions must feature AMD CPUs with 16-24 cores per host, 384 GB RAM at HQ and 512 GB at DR, and external SAN or NAS storage. Proposals are due by 3:00 pm ET on October 8, 2025, with contract award expected on October 9, 2025, and Library Board of Trustees approval scheduled for October 20, 2025. Key objectives include improving security, reducing vendor sprawl, enhancing performance, and establishing a DR environment capable of running full production load.

While no specific set-aside designations or disadvantaged enterprise requirements are explicitly mentioned, the RFP emphasizes open-source storage platforms, network segmentation, and comprehensive security measures. The current environment utilizes StorMagic synchronous storage over iSCSI with three Intel Xeon Platinum hosts, supporting approximately 40-45 virtual machines and about 5 TB of data. The procurement includes provisions for training up to 3 administrators and 5 operators, with a five-year planning horizon for technological implementation. Although a specific budget range is not disclosed, the comprehensive nature of the project suggests a significant investment in infrastructure modernization. The successful vendor will be responsible for a full migration from the existing VMware environment to the new Proxmox VE platform, including all necessary professional services to ensure a smooth transition and comprehensive knowledge transfer to the library's technical staff.