Justification and Approval - Minaret Licenses for Classification Web Plus
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 Library of Congress intends to award a sole-source contract for Minaret® Licensing and Maintenance for the Classification Web Plus system. This special notice serves as a Justification and Approval (J&A) for other than full and open competition, citing Minaret® as the only known source for the proprietary software required. The system is critical for maintaining the Library's subscription-based product and supporting internal cataloging workflows. The response date for comments on this J&A is April 30, 2026.
Scope of Work
This requirement covers the provision of Minaret® Licensing and Maintenance for the Classification Web Plus system. The software is essential for:
- Maintaining and enhancing the Library's subscription-based product, Classification Web Plus.
- Supporting external customers and Library staff workflows, including cataloging.
- Facilitating the monthly generation of new subject heading and classification numbers.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Sole-source award (implied, based on J&A).
- Period of Performance: Base Year: August 1, 2026 - July 31, 2027, with four option years extending through July 31, 2031.
- Estimated Value: Over $250,000 (justification threshold).
- Published Date: April 15, 2026.
- Response Date (for comments on J&A): April 30, 2026, 3:00 PM ET.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This action is being taken without full and open competition, as Minaret® is identified as the sole source possessing the unique capabilities and proprietary software necessary. The justification cites 41 U.S.C. § 6101 and FAR 6.302-1 as the legal basis for limiting competition.
Submission & Evaluation
This document is a justification for sole-source procurement, not a solicitation for proposals. Interested parties may submit comments or capability statements regarding this sole-source determination by the response date.
Additional Notes
Market research, including a sources sought notice, indicated no other vendors could meet the Library's requirements. The Library has utilized this software for approximately eight years.