statewide library electronic resources

The state of Massachusetts, through the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) and the Massachusetts Library System (MLS), is seeking proposals for a statewide contract to provide electronic library resources, including journals, books, databases, and multimedia, to the Massachusetts library community. The contract will require the selected vendor to meet extensive technical specifications, such as providing full-text, abstract, and citation-only content across various subject areas, supporting browser and mobile access, ensuring ADA accessibility, protecting user privacy, and integrating with library authentication and cataloging systems. The contract term is unspecified but may include renewal options, and the MBLC and MLS will manage the statewide and individual library-level administration and configuration. The RFR indicates an estimated total maximum obligation of up to $7,000,000 over the life of the contract, with funding from the MBLC, MLS, and potentially federal LSTA funds. Bidders are required to make a significant financial commitment to partner with certified Minority, Women, Veteran, and Disability-Owned Business Enterprises, which will be evaluated as 10% of the total score. The procurement process involves product trials, presentations, and a question-and-answer session, with the final selection occurring in February/March 2017, and the anticipated contract duration is 24 months, with two 2-year renewal options.