Notice of Intent for Sole Source ORWO - SPFL Film Stock
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’ Contracts and Grants Directorate has issued a Notice of Intent to award a sole-source contract to Original Wolfen (ORWO) for the procurement of specific ORWO filmstock. This acquisition is critical for the preservation of the Library's film collection, requiring unique black and white motion picture laboratory film safety stock. Responses from interested parties are due by April 22, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for specific black and white motion picture laboratory film safety stock in 35mm gauge. Key types include:
- Black and white fine grain print stock (PF2 v.3, 2000' roll)
- Black and white fine grain duplicating negative film stock (DN21, 2000' roll)
- Black and white fine grain master positive film stock (DP31, 2000' roll)
These film stocks are essential for achieving the highest quality preservation of the Library's film collection.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sole-Source Contract (Notice of Intent)
- Contractor: Original Wolfen (ORWO)
- Period of Performance: Anticipated from June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2028 (as per J&A).
- Response Due: April 22, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET
- Published: April 16, 2026
- Set-Aside: Not applicable (Sole Source Justification)
Submission & Response
This is not a request for quotes or proposals. Interested parties who believe they can satisfy the requirements must clearly and unambiguously identify their capability in writing by the response date. Submissions should demonstrate that competition would be advantageous to the Government, not cost or time prohibitive, and would not hinder the Library of Congress's mission. Information received will solely determine if competitive procedures could be used.
Additional Notes
The Justification and Approval (J&A) document states that ORWO is the sole source for these specific film stocks, which possess unique characteristics vital for the Library's preservation needs. Market research indicates only two manufacturers globally produce such film stocks (Eastman-Kodak and ORWO), but several required types are exclusive to ORWO. The Library will continue to monitor for new manufacturers to potentially increase future competition.