The Library of Congress is soliciting bids for Braille mailing containers, specifically two types: standard and large sizes, with an approximate distribution of 80% standard and 20% large. This opportunity is open to all businesses as there is no set-aside. The solicitation follows FAR subpart 13.5, indicating a simplified acquisition process, which means interested vendors should focus on providing product samples and a technical approach to demonstrate compliance with the requirements. Tracking this notice is essential for those looking to bid, as it includes a combined synopsis/solicitation format.
Analysis by Mindy, grounded in the SAM.gov notice.
Description
This SAM listing was edited on 06/16/2026 to add a Questions and Answers document.
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Notice: This is a competitive solicitation for commercial products and commercial services adhering to the requirements of FAR subpart 13.5, Simplified Acquisition Procedures. This is for the procurement of Braille Mailing Containers to two (2) types of braille mailing containers, standard sizes and large sizes.
The National Library Service (NLS) produces books and magazines in braille and audio formats for individuals who are unable to read standard print due to visual or other physical disabilities. Most of these books and magazines are circulated to patrons through the mail. Braille books are primarily distributed in multi-volume format to libraries and utilize braille mailing containers for shipment to individual patrons.
The contractor shall furnish two (2) types of braille mail containers in accordance with the requirements set forth in this contract. The total quantity shall consist of approximately eighty percent (80%) standard-size mail containers and twenty percent (20%) large-size mail containers. The contractor shall apply all required preprinted text and/or imaging to each braille mail container as specified. Prior to full production, the contractor shall produce and submit preproduction control samples in both standard and large sizes for inspection and approval by the Library. The contractor shall perform all necessary inspection and testing of preproduction samples to ensure compliance with contract requirements before proceeding to full production. Upon receipt of written approval from the Library, the contractor shall proceed with the full production of braille mail containers. All production units shall confirm the approved samples and contract specifications.
The Government will award a contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible offeror that provides the best value to the government. For this competition, the following evaluation factors will be used to determine the “Best Value Tradeoff” for the government:
Volume I – Product Samples
Volume II - Technical Volume
Technical Approach
Quality Assurance Plan (QAP)
Volume III - Past Performance
Volume IIII - Price
In accordance with FAR 13.106-1(a)(2)(iii), the Library is not required to state the relative importance assigned to each evaluation factor and subfactor.
The following attachments are included in this notice:
J1 - Braille Volume Mailing Container Requirements Version 0.1.2 (2 Pages)
J2 - Past Performance Questionnaire (3 Pages)
J3 - Ordering Year Pricing Schedule (1 Tab)
Question & Answer Document (1 Page)
All proposals shall be submitted electronically via email to the Contracting Officer, James Robinson, at Jarobinson@loc.gov, and the Contracting Specialist, Brenda Kinlay, at bkinlay@loc.gov, no later than the response date specified in this solicitation.
Source: SAM.gov, as posted. Verify the current solicitation before responding.
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