Ex Libris Renewal - Alma Library Management System
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has issued a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (JOFOC) for the renewal of Ex Libris System Products, specifically the Alma Library Management System. This action justifies a sole-source award to Ex Libris USA Inc. for essential library management, discovery, and access tools for NASA Headquarters.
Scope of Work
NASA requires integrated enterprise-level library management, discovery, and access tools to support research, collections, and information retrieval. The services include:
- Alma Library Management System (LMS): Backend system for staff.
- Primo VE Discovery Layer: Frontend for patrons.
- Rapido subscription fee.
- Digital Storage. These cloud-hosted services are FedRAMP authorized.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (Sole Source)
- Duration: One-year base period (through November 30, 2026) and four one-year option periods (through November 30, 2030).
- Set-Aside: None specified (sole source).
- Published Date: May 29, 2026.
Rationale for Sole Source
Ex Libris USA Inc. is identified as the exclusive provider of the Alma and Primo VE platforms, with no alternative vendors or distribution channels available. Switching systems would impose significant operational and financial burdens on NASA due to prior investments and existing integrations. Market research confirmed Ex Libris as the sole source, with no commercial listings found through GSA or SEWP, and no resellers. A previous notice posted on SAM.gov from February 06 to February 21, 2026, yielded no expressions of interest from other firms.
Additional Notes
NASA will continue to examine the market for alternative solutions for future acquisitions. For inquiries, contact Caitlin Poulton at caitlin.m.poulton@nasa.gov.