eResources Branding RFI

 1. Disclaimer 

 This Request for Information (RFI) does not create any representation, either express or implied, that: 

  • any tender or procurement process will proceed; or  
  • if a tender or procurement process does proceed, the participant’s tender or other form of application (if any) will be given any preference or special consideration.  

Participants are still required to follow any tender or procurement process that may take place.  

This Request for Information does not indicate a commitment to any particular course of action. 

2. Introduction 

 The Library System of Lancaster County (LSLC), in cooperation with member libraries, seeks to create a brand for county-wide online eResources and online services provided to the public.   

 The LSLC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that exists primarily to serve and help coordinate collaborative efforts of the public libraries in Lancaster County. We are a federated library system, made up of 14 independent public libraries, 2 branches and a bookmobile, which serves Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. The LSLC functions similarly to a consortium. The LSLC staff provides support services and cooperative programs to assist the member libraries in meeting the diverse needs of their communities’ residents.  

The LSLC provides online resources such as a catalog of physical materials (eg. books, audio, video, etc.), databases, downloadable eBooks, eAudiobooks, etc. The LSLC also manages authentication of state-provided databases and resources. These resources and services are available to the public via member library websites. Most of these resources can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on any device connected to the internet.  

The member libraries are as diverse as the populations they serve, ranging from urban to rural, and large to small. They all share a passion to serve their communities and provide the best services they can with the resources available to them. There is a high level of cooperation and collaboration between libraries There is also a marked pride in their local identities. A cooperative brand will need to honor the diverse vision for public libraries in Lancaster County. 

3. Background – Most of the eResources are accessed online by residents who have a valid Library card from an internet accessible device. The user clicks on the eResource link on the local library website, is redirected to the authentication page, and is then prompted to enter their library card number for authentication to be granted access. The LSLC coordinates and maintains the majority of eResources in Lancaster County. At this time, the LSLC’s logo appears on the authentication pages, instruction pages, apps, etc.  

4. There is confusion about brand identity, and a disconnect regarding the use of the LSLC logo and the desire to promote our local libraries in Lancaster County rather than the library system, which has made it difficult to promote online resources and services across the county. Thus, our goal is to create a brand/identity that represents all of Lancaster County’s online library services and opportunities without focusing on LSLC, which can be utilized alongside our member library branding and promoted by both LSLC and the member libraries. 

We believe that by crafting a unique and neutral brand/identity for the online resources provided by public libraries in Lancaster County we will be able to generate a higher level of awareness of these eResources, therefore, improving their potential for a greater level of use. 

5. Purpose – The purpose of this project is to create a brand and identity that can be used by all library partners in Lancaster County to promote online resources and services without compromising local library identity or creating public confusion. In so doing, allowing for greater promotion of the resources, increasing awareness of the eResources and services, and growing their use exponentially. 

6. eResources and online services to be branded-   Each eResource and service has its own unique purpose and internet path. These are some of the eResources and services to be branded as part of this project.  

7. Opportunity- Create a brand and potential sub-brands for eResources and online services coordinated by the LSLC and provided by the public libraries in Lancaster County 

  • Criteria for success 
    • Gain buy-in by member libraries of the new brand. 
    • Earn recognition of brand by the public as a library brand. 
    • Increase usage of eResources and online services. 
  • The branding should be future-leaning. 
  • The branding should be welcoming, inclusive and reflect the growing diversity of Lancaster County. 
  • The brand should have broad appeal with particular focus on students and early and mid-career adults who want to grow and develop new skills or seek new opportunities for self-improvement or career development. 

 8. Requested Services and Deliverables 

  • Consultative advice on branding and marketing campaign. 
  • Develop three (3) branding concepts based on input from stakeholders 
  • Fully develop one (1) chosen concept to include logos, color palettes and font options including logos for: 
    • main landing page and catalog 
    • Chat With A Librarian Widget 
    • other variations identified during the project 
  • Testing among various audiences including stakeholders and users 
  • Lead meeting to present brand to stakeholders  
  • Style/use guide to minimally include: 
    • Electronic logo file in all standard 
    • Font and color palette(s) with PMS color references 
    • Formats suitable for print and web. 
  • LSLC to own and retain intellectual property rights to brand, logo  

 9. Selection Criteria 

  • Understanding of Lancaster and Lancaster County, PA demographics and culture important 
  • Demonstrated capacity for building recognizable brand(s) that lead to increased sales, use or patronage. 
  • Prior work will be requested, and references will be selected from the work provided. 
  • Total project cost 
  • Pre-selection Interview 
  • Knowledge of and experience with public library services a plus 

10. Proposal Submission Format  

  • PDF submission with the following information 
    • Agency or business description. 
    • Address points in section 9. Selection Criteria. 
    • List of key personnel with qualifications and experience of individuals to work on the project  
    • List of past clients along with examples of completed work 
    • Proposed schedule and with deliverables and milestones, including phased approach, if recommended 
    • Contact information pre-selection interview 
    • Minimum of 3 Client references – 2 of which are current 
    • Additional information such as press marketing materials, testimonials, etc.
    • Pricing: 
      1. All fee schedule types will be considered.  
      2. Suppliers are asked to break out all fees, costs and third-party costs. 
      3. Cost estimate should include proposed ongoing maintenance or hourly rate. 

 11. Timeline 

  • Submission of interest: Deadline: August 19, 2022  
    • Pre-selection interview: to be completed within one month of due date 
    • Selection date: September 23, 2022 
    • Mandatory meetings: post-selection stakeholder meeting, meeting to present brand to stakeholders. 
    • Final Deliverables due: December 19, 2022. 

12. Submission of Information:  

  • Point of Contact for RFI – The contact person for this LSLC Request for information is: 
  • Women and minority-owned businesses encouraged to apply.