Notice of Intent to Sole Source Ex Libris Alma for Cloud Migration

The CDC Office of Library Science maintains computer software systems vital to its mission: Voyager, SFX, and Primo. In 2003, the Voyager Integrated Library System (ILS) was implemented at CDC and it continues to be the backbone for all library services. SFX is the link resolver that allows access to an extensive collection of resources like e-journals and e-books. In 2013, the Primo web discovery system was implemented to harvest from all of these systems to give patrons a single “Google-like” search interface to find all possible resources both in print and electronic. Ex Libris is the proprietary owner of Alma, Voyager, SFX, and Primo systems. Ex Libris has released “Alma” which is its new, next generation Unified Resource Management (URM) system. Encompassing and redefining the functions of the individual systems, Alma supports the entire suite of library operations - selection, acquisition, metadata management, digitization, and fulfillment. OCIO has mandated the migration to cloud-based systems over the next 2 years. The goal is to migrate to this new system (Alma / Primo) during FY2023, based on funds’ availability. When that happens, Voyager and SFX will no longer need to be supported. For this reason, those systems will not be required items. Alma / Primo The Alma / Primo Integrated Library System (Alma / Primo ILS) integrates the operational needs of a library into one system. It comprises of a relational database and client software to interact with that database. The Alma / Primo ILS has distinct modules for the following software functions: Access Reports - statistical reporting using Access database and SQL queries Acquisitions - ordering, receiving, and invoicing materials Catalog - classifying and indexing items in the collection Circulation - charging and discharging items to patrons Global Data Change - apply mass data changes to records OPAC - search the library’s print collection online Reporter - produces overdue notices and circulation reports Systems Admin - configure library policies and operator access These modules make up the Alma ILS. They assist the library with its necessary functions and services. It is the cornerstone system to manage library operations. Alma also acts as a link resolver, including an extensive knowledgebase of e-resources available in the scholarly environment. It also includes an A-Z e-journal list, an A-Z e-book list, collection management and analysis tools, usage statistics and the UStat e-resources report analysis tool which uses COUNTER reports and the SUSHI transfer protocol. Alma is fully web-based, requiring only a web browser to use and manage (no desktop clients needed). This system is being provided to CDC in a software-as-service package which includes all knowledgebase and software updates. Primo Primo web discovery system is a one-stop solution for the discovery and delivery of the library’s local and remote resources such as books, journal articles, and digital objects. It brings together the library’s systems into a single “Google-like” search box so patrons can search across the full breadth of content from the library’s collections along with global and regional resources from the Primo Central Index (PCI). PCI is a mega-aggregation of hundreds of millions of scholarly e-resources including journal articles, e-books, reviews, legal documents and more harvested from publishers, aggregators, and open-access repositories. Primo streamlines the search process enabling patrons to locate and obtain accurate, authoritative information quickly and efficiently. III. Scope of Work The vendor will provide technical assistance, access and maintenance support for all licensed cloud hosted systems, including Alma and PRIMO software systems from Monday through Friday 7am to 7pm, including access to their Pivotal e-service portal.