Request For Information (RFI) for Library Materials Cooperative Purchasing Agreement

The BC Libraries Cooperative is requesting information from interested parties for the supply of Library Materials Purchasing. This RFI is intended to gather information that could assist the Cooperative in the development of a future procurement process. In the event that sufficient information is received, the Cooperative may, but is not obligated to, initiate a competitive bidding opportunity.

Interested parties are invited to respond to this RFI by submitting a response to the Cooperative. Responses should include ideas, information, and recommendations that could result in a clarification of the requirements, cost-saving opportunities, and the identification of potential problem areas with this initiative.

Respondents are requested to provide a concise and focused response to this RFI by completing the attached BC Libraries Cooperative Request For Information (RFI) for Library Materials Cooperative Purchasing Agreement.

Respondents are specifically requested not to submit price proposals (other than high-level cost estimates for budget purposes) or information about the qualifications or experience of their firm or individuals in their firm. This RFI will not be used to evaluate, rank, or select vendors, nor will it be used to pre-qualify or screen vendors for a subsequent competitive bidding process, if any.

If subsequent competitive bidding opportunities are issued, the Cooperative is under no obligation to advise any vendor responding to this RFI. Vendors are advised to monitor the BC Libraries Cooperative website for any such opportunities, which will be open to all vendors regardless of whether or not a response to this RFI has been submitted.

All responses to this RFI become the property of the Cooperative and will be held in confidence, subject to the provisions of the BC Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Respondents to this RFI consent to the Cooperative incorporating any submitted ideas, concepts, approaches, or strategies into any planning, design, procurement, or contractual activities related to any aspect of the project without any obligation, liability, or consideration on the part of the Cooperative. The Cooperative will not be responsible for any costs incurred by any vendor in responding to this RFI.

Responses should be sent via email in electronic format, Word or PDF files, to office@bc.libraries.coop before 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time on November 5, 2013, and should quote RFI Number: 2013-10-01.