R605--BrowZine subscription FY26-HIG-831 (VA-26-00021838)
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 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) VA Library Network (VALNET), intends to issue a sole source contract to Third Iron, LLC. for a BrowZine subscription. This is a Special Notice indicating an intent to procure a web-based product to simplify researcher workflow and provide access to online resources for VHA healthcare system users. Responses from responsible sources are due by February 17, 2026, 9:00 a.m. EST.
Purpose & Scope
The VA requires an existing, commercial, off-the-shelf (COTS), web-based BrowZine subscription product. This system will provide access to online resources and user authentication, simplifying researcher workflow across approximately 130 VAMC accounts (with capacity for more). Key requirements include:
- Web-based method for accessing VA-subscribed journals and user authentication.
- Self-registration accounts for VA staff.
- System supporting Single Sign-On (SSO) for secure access.
- Organization of user groups and allocation of resource access.
- Compatibility with link resolver resources (e.g., Serials Solutions).
- Provision of expansive usage statistics.
- Functionality independent of the VA computer network, requiring no software installation.
- Links to full text of journals/PDFs.
- 508 compliance or a plan for compliance within 12 months.
- Accessibility via various personal mobile devices (Apple and Android).
- Minimizing system downtime and providing notification.
- Onsite and remote instruction with training materials.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Sole Source (Special Notice)
- Authority: FAR Part 6.103-1, "Only One Responsible Source and No Other supplies or services will satisfy Agency requirements."
- Intended Contractor: Third Iron, LLC.
- Period of Performance: 12-month base period, four (4) 12-month option years, and a six (6) month extension.
- Product Service Code: R605 (Library Services)
Set-Aside & Eligibility
- NAICS Code: 519290 (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 Employees)
- Small Business Clauses: FAR 52.219-8 (Utilization of Small Business Concerns) and FAR 52.219-9 (Small Business Subcontracting Plan) will be included.
Submission & Evaluation
This is not a request for competitive quotes, and no solicitation document is available. However, any responsible source capable of meeting the requirements may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation, along with a reseller's agreement. Responses will be evaluated, but the Government retains discretion not to compete the procurement.
- Response Due: Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 9:00 a.m. EST
- Submit To: Sharif Ra El (sharif.ra-el@va.gov)
- Contracting Office: Department of Veterans Affairs, Program Contracting Activity Central, Independence, OH.