Item Description:
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Agmt with Bertelsmann Publishing Group, Inc. to provide hardcover children’s read-along books with embedded audio players, 10/20/26-10/19/29, NTE $500,000
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that the Agreement with Bertelsmann Publishing Group, Inc. to provide hardcover children’s read-along books with embedded audio players, during the period of October 20, 2026, through October 19, 2029, in the not to exceed amount of $500,000 be approved; that the Chair of the Board be authorized to sign the Agreement on behalf of the county, and that the Controller be authorized to disburse funds as directed.
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Background:
These children’s materials contain a permanently attached electronic reader which transforms an ordinary print book into an all-in-one read-along. Children can simply push a button to listen and read. These are highly sought after and utilized materials within our collection.
This is one of only two vendors that provide hardcover children’s books with an embedded audio player. Each vendor holds exclusive copyrights to the titles that they convert into the read-along hybrid. No other vendors can offer the same titles in this format. HCL is currently pursuing a contract with the other vendor in addition to Bertelsmann Publishing Group, Inc.
The dollar amounts associated with this contract would not be new and are already contained within the Hennepin County Library collection budget. Approval of this would allow HCL to utilize the existing collection budget to increase the supply of one of our most popular and highest circulating collection materials for children. HCL has negotiated a 12% volume discount from the list price for this contract. This agreement aligns with Minnesota Statues, section 134.51 that outlines access to library materials and rights as protected.
Hennepin County Purchasing has reviewed and supports this Sole Source Procurement.
This request funds services that are: core services
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