The Complete Guide to RFPs for Libraries

Abstract

Learn how to write a Request for Proposal (RFP) so that you receive your library's desired materials, resources, and equipment at the lowest price. This comprehensive book covers the philosophy behind RFPs to prime readers to understand how to most effectively write them and provides instruction on navigating the submission process as it applies to multiple types of libraries. For many years, only large academic and public libraries and a few library systems regularly used RFPs. Now, smaller schools, public libraries, and library systems use RFPs as tools to select vendors for computer equipment, online systems, databases, and materials. Library consortia frequently use RFPs to select databases and integrated library systems. In this useful book, readers will learn more about the types and advantages of RFPs; the timelines and logistics for submitting RFPs; how to write different types of RFPs; how to evaluate vendor performance; the transfer process when a new vendor is selected; vendor perspectives; and RFP ethics. An appendix includes sample RFPs and evaluation materials, and a glossary defines language necessary to writing and understanding RFPs. This book is essential reading for librarians who need to select vendors to provide library materials including books, serials, and media in all formats as well as for those who are choosing integrated library systems, security and inventory systems such as RFID, computer equipment and software, online and streaming materials such as books and music, or services such as digitization. Teaches readers how to acquire an appropriate product from a vendor at the lowest price Provides practical examples of questions to use in various RFPs as well as lessons learned Includes sample RFPs and evaluation materials Incorporates perspectives of librarians and vendors with experience in various aspects of the RFP process