Subscription Services for NLM (Sole Source)

Background
The National Library of Medicine (NLM), located in Bethesda, Maryland, is part of the National Institutes of Health under the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). As the world's largest biomedical library, NLM is responsible for acquiring and preserving biomedical literature in various formats and languages. The goal of this contract is to secure subscription services that will enhance NLM's modern biomedical literature collection, supporting its products and services.

Work Details
The contractor will provide subscription services for biomedical literature published globally by various organizations. Key tasks include:

- Placing new and renewal subscription orders on behalf of NLM;
- Managing access to electronic resources;
- Providing a machine-readable equivalent of invoices in EDI format;
- Maintaining an online system for customer use with functionalities such as bibliographic information, pricing models, order information, invoice payment details, claims status, shipping information, and the ability to submit inquiries.

The contractor must also ensure continuity of service during disasters and maintain accurate records of negotiated prices. Subscription orders may include print only, electronic only, or bundled formats. The contractor is responsible for handling new subscriptions, renewals, cancellations, title changes, format changes, and ensuring proper bibliographic verification.

Period of Performance
The anticipated period of performance is 6 months with a potential extension of an additional 6 months.

Place of Performance
All tasks will be performed at the vendor’s site.