Bookstore Operations Service

Request for Proposal Issued: February 5th, 2026 at 10am

Pre-proposal Video Conference: February 12th, 2026 at 11am

Notice of Intent to Submit Proposal: February 16th, 2026 at 6pm

Deadline for Vendor Questions: February 19th, 2026 at 4pm

Responses to Vendor Questions Posted: February 26th, 2026 at 5pm

Proposal Submission Deadline: March 10th, 2026 at 5pm

Evaluation of Proposals: March 11th, 2026 - April 8th, 2026

Campus Interviews (if necessary): March 24th - March 25th, 2026

Complete Selection: April 9th, 2026

Negotiate Contract: April 9th, 2026 - May 1st, 2026

An educational institution in Massachusetts is seeking a qualified vendor to manage comprehensive bookstore operations, focusing on student-centered retail and distribution services. The scope includes ensuring timely and equitable access to required and recommended course materials, course-related supplies, spirit wear, commencement regalia, and essential campus retail items. The bookstore will serve as a hub for the sale and rental of college textbooks, reference and trade books, stationery, supplies, apparel, computer hardware and software, and other items typically required for academic endeavors.

The selected vendor will be responsible for managing a full-service campus bookstore, both in-person and through an interactive, easy-to-navigate e-commerce website. This includes offering electronic point-of-sale transactions, digital delivery programs for course materials, and an online ordering system for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and other customers. The solution must provide web-based course materials adoption software to facilitate online textbook adoptions by faculty and enable students to obtain comprehensive lists of their required materials.

Additionally, the vendor will develop and implement a social media marketing strategy, operate a gift card program, accept gift certificates, and ensure direct shipping options for online orders. The contract period is for three years.