The Smithsonian Institution intends to issue a Request for Proposals ("RFP") from library resource providers to create Smithsonian-branded digital library resources that leverage Smithsonian content in a searchable format, for distribution to library, academic and research markets. In addition, in order to supplement the digital content, the resource provider will also create and distribute in-classroom print learning materials, as appropriate. Smithsonian content sources will include Smithsonian magazine and Air&Space magazine, and may potentially include content from other Smithsonian sources. Key to the program will be unique product features and benefits that leverage Smithsonian's brand and assets. The RFP is anticipated to be available in late June. Please note: 1. Interested companies must meet the following minimum qualification requirements in order to be considered : a. Demonstrated understanding of and experience working within the parameters of court decisions in Tasini v. New York Times, 533 U.S. 483 (2001), Faulkner v. National Geographic Society, 409 F.3d 26 (2d Cir. 2005) and Greenberg v. National Geographic Society, 488 F.3d 1331 (11th Cir. 2007) regarding the privilege accorded to magazine publishers under Section 201(c) of the Copyright Act of 1976 to produce digital compilations of previously published print magazines provided that such reproductions retain contextual fidelity to the original print magazine by reproducing the entire collective work in the precise manner (including articles, images, advertisements, etc.) in which it was originally printed. To fulfill this requirement, library and research resource providers should present a listing of all of the current or past product offerings that they have developed that are consistent with these court decisions as well as how long they have distributed that material. b. Demonstrated expertise in the handling and preservation of rare materials. To fulfill this requirement, library and research resource providers should indicate how many years they have been developing products from rare materials and list the sources of those rare materials i.e. companies, libraries, or museums. Minimum requirement is 1 year of rare material handling and preservation experience from at least one source. c. Current, large-scale distribution of both online content for library, classroom and research purposes, as well as in-classroom print learning material. To fulfill this requirement, library and research resource providers should be able to indicate, at minimum, existing distribution of the online content for library, classroom and research purposes and in-classroom print learning material on a nation-wide scale. 2. The Smithsonian anticipates the need to disclose certain confidential information about its business activities during the RFP process. As a result, we will require that requestors sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement prior to receiving a copy of the RFP. If your company is interested in working with the Smithsonian to develop and distribute the products described above, please contact Peter Reid, Smithsonian Enterprises, at 202-633-2498 or
[email protected] to request a copy of the NDA. Proposals are due on August 2, 2012. Requested materials must be submitted by the deadline in order to be considered.