Sole Source: Keystone Library Automation System for Illinois Talking Book and Braille Service

The State of Illinois, through the Illinois Secretary of State, is entering into a sole source contract with Keystone Systems, Inc. for software, maintenance, and support services for the Illinois Talking Book and Braille Service (TBBS). The contract term will be from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2029 and will provide on-demand talking book cartridge duplication, library management and circulation software, software reader advisory service, online patron access, and equipment services for the state's blind and physically handicapped program. The total value of the initial five-year term is $626,715. Keystone Systems, Inc. has been the sole provider of this specialized software and services to the TBBS since 2000, with average annual price increases of 3%. By entering into a five-year agreement, the cost will remain constant for the term.

The sole source procurement is necessary as Keystone Systems, Inc. is the only vendor that can meet the unique requirements of the National Library Service's Talking Book and Braille Service, and the software is not available from any other provider. A public hearing is scheduled for June 28, 2024 at 2:00pm in Springfield, IL to receive feedback on the appropriateness of the sole source award, as required by the Illinois Procurement Code. There are no other set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond, and no existing incumbent vendors or technology integration requirements are noted.