The intent of this Pre-solicitation Notice is for informational purposes only. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Contracting Operations Branch (COB) intends to award a sole source firm fixed price purchase order with a base period of three (3) months and one (1) option period of three (3) months to Strategic Diversity Initiatives, Inc. for an experienced and certified diversity and inclusion professional with experience working in libraries and with library staff members. The professional will guide a strategic planning process by clarifying an organization’s mission and vision and identifying steps needed to move toward an inclusive climate for the National Agricultural Library (NAL) in Beltsville, MD.

The proposed contract will be awarded using Sole Source Justification procedures citing the authority FAR 13.106-1(B)(1) Only One Source Reasonably Available. The sole source justification is attached for reference.

The synopsis does NOT constitute an Invitation for Bids (IFB), a Request for Proposals (RFP) or Request for Quotes (RFQ) nor does it restrict the Government as to its ultimate acquisition approach.  The Government does not intend to award a contract on the basis of this notice, nor will it reimburse firms for any costs associated with preparing or submitting a response to this notice.  However, all responsible sources, meeting the requirements within the statement of work which, if received within 15 calendar days of publication of this notice shall be considered by the Government.  All responses must be submitted to the Government primary point of contact at the contracting office address shown below. If no written responses are received after the publication of this notice the contract will be awarded without further notice.  A determination by the Government not to open the requirement to competition based upon the responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government.