99 -- Materials and Services to support construction of Digital Talking Book Prototypes

The government plans to issue a sole source open market award modification to Battelle Memorial Institute, based in Columbus, Ohio, which previously secured a competitive delivery order under the General Services Administration’s Professional Engineering Services contract. This contract supports the Library of Congress, National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, by designing a portable digital player designed to distribute and present digital talking books to visually impaired and physically handicapped users. Battelle’s recent proposal details a range of open market items, including materials and services necessary for building additional functional and pre-production prototypes of the digital player. These items encompass tooling modifications, custom power supplies, texture molds, engineering test equipment rentals, rapid prototype production, test fixtures, and shipping materials. Additionally, service requirements include UL certification consultation and telecommunications support. The effort ensures the development and refinement of prototypes that will enhance accessibility for the blind and physically handicapped. Interested suppliers or manufacturers are encouraged to contact the designated GSA contract specialist for further information.