Authorization to approve the contract and purchase the library automation system from Polaris Library Systems, in the amount of $75,985, in accordance with the rfp process conducted by pinellas public library cooperative and purchase equipment from southern computer warehouse and Posworld, in the amount of $9,000, for an estimated expenditure of $84,985
The Library Department is preparing to migrate to the Pinellas Public Library Cooperative (PPLC) automation system in August 2008. The concept of a shared county automation system was discussed at the January 15, 2008 City Commission Work Session. The benefits of a shared system include improved customer service, streamlined work procedures and consistency among the participating city libraries in Pinellas County. Patrons will obtain one library card for all the facilities, learn to use one online catalog and access electronic resources with greater ease. The annual software maintenance and system support fee of approximately $12,000 is significantly less than the Library's previous automation system, Sunline, maintained by the Tampa Bay Library Consortium (TBLC).
The Request For Proposal (RFP) was prepared by RMG Consultants, Inc. for the Pinellas Public Library Cooperative (PPLC) in May 2007. The RFP was sent to SirsiDynix, Inc., Integrated Interfaces, Inc., Polaris Library Systems, Inc. and The Library Corporation with a response date of June 29, 2007. The PPLC directors reviewed the submittals with RMG consultants. Polaris Library Systems, Inc. was chosen as the preferred vendor based on their competitive pricing and product capabilities. St. Petersburg Library System and Clearwater Library System currently use Polaris for automation.
In November 2007, the library gave TBLC notice of the termination of the contract for automation services effective September 30, 2008. The contract between the Library and Polaris was reviewed by the City Attorney and changes approved by both parties.
