Synthetic DNA Data Storage- Library of Congress Request for Information
ID: 030ADV25Q0128Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

LIBRARY OF CONGRESSLIBRARY OF CONGRESSCONTRACTS SERVICESWashington, DC, 20540, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)
Timeline
  1. 1
    Posted Apr 2, 2025, 12:00 AM UTC
  2. 2
    Updated Apr 2, 2025, 12:00 AM UTC
  3. 3
    Due Apr 21, 2025, 6:00 PM UTC
Description

The Library of Congress (LOC) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to explore the feasibility of utilizing synthetic DNA for the long-term preservation of its extensive digital collections, which currently exceed 31 petabytes. The objectives include encoding 1.0TB of various data formats—such as video, audio, text, and images—onto synthetic DNA, ensuring high accuracy in the writing process, validating preservation techniques, and documenting the overall process and findings. This initiative is significant as it aims to enhance data preservation methods while supporting the Library's future needs, particularly in light of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Interested vendors should direct inquiries to Riley Leonhardt at rleonhardt@loc.gov or Betsy Lewis-Matsuoka at bmatsuoka@loc.gov, with the project expected to be completed within one year under a fixed-price contract structure.

Point(s) of Contact
Files
Title
Posted
Apr 2, 2025, 6:05 PM UTC
The Library of Congress is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to explore the feasibility of using synthetic DNA for long-term data storage. The purpose is to invest in innovative preservation methods for its extensive digital collections, currently managed through traditional storage. The RFI seeks input from vendors on synthesizing DNA data storage for encoding various data formats with high accuracy, detecting errors, and ensuring data retrieval. Specific objectives include testing the writing of 1.0TB of digital data onto synthetic DNA, validating preservation techniques, documenting processes, and ensuring the integrity of encoded information. The contractor will develop a project management plan, maintain communication with the Library, and provide various formal reports on progress and findings. This initiative aims to push boundaries in data preservation, aligning with the Library's future needs and supporting the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The period of performance is one year, with a fixed-price contract structure, where payments depend on deliverables. The RFI emphasizes concise, informative responses and outlines evaluation criteria for future proposals based on technical understanding, approach, project management, and pricing.
Lifecycle
Title
Type
Special Notice
Similar Opportunities
Film and Sound Preservation Plan Tasks - Library of Congress
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking contractor support to implement tasks associated with the National Film and Sound Preservation Plans, as outlined in Solicitation 030ADV25Q0112. The procurement includes organizing a virtual symposium on Generative AI, producing National Recording Registry (NRR) radio programs, and continuing the Association for Moving Image Archivists (AMIA) Professional Mentorships and online workshops on film restoration. This initiative is crucial for preserving American audio-visual heritage and engaging diverse audiences in the archival community. Interested contractors should note that the contract will be a Firm-Fixed-Price agreement, with the budget unspecified but falling under FAR Part 13 Simplified Acquisition Procedures for contracts under $250,000. For further inquiries, potential offerors can contact Colleen Daly at cdaly@loc.gov or James Robinson at jarobinson@loc.gov.
Purchase of Turntables, Tonearms, and Custom Plinths
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking proposals for the procurement of Technics (Panasonic) SP10R turntables, tonearms, and custom plinths to replace outdated audio equipment that has been in service for over 25 years. This initiative aims to enhance the Library's archival capabilities for preserving and accessing its extensive audiovisual collection, as the Technics SP10R system is uniquely suited to meet the specific requirements for playback of fragile analog recordings. The contract will be awarded based on the lowest-priced technically acceptable proposal, with a submission deadline set for April 22, 2025, at 5:00 PM (Eastern Time). Interested vendors should direct their proposals to the primary contact, James Robinson, at jarobinson@loc.gov, or the secondary contact, Brenda Kinlay, at bkinlay@loc.gov.
NLS Library Cartridge and Container Labels - Print & Braille Embossed Labels
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking proposals for the procurement of custom printed labels with embossed Braille for the National Library Service (NLS) for the Blind and Print Disabled. This contract involves sourcing, producing, and shipping printed labels for cartridges, cartridge containers, and shipping boxes, which are essential for facilitating access to library resources for visually impaired patrons. The contract will be awarded based on the best value to the government, with a minimum order value of $2,000 and a maximum of $2,000,000, spanning from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2030. Interested vendors must submit proposals by April 29, 2025, and provide sample labels by May 13, 2025; questions regarding the solicitation are due by April 16, 2025. For further inquiries, contact Brenda Kinlay at bkinlay@loc.gov or Jennifer Zwahlen at jzwa@loc.gov.
American 250 Exhibition Audio Visual (AV) Design Services
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking an experienced media design firm to provide audio-visual (AV) design services for the "Founding Phrases Exhibit" in its newly established Treasures Gallery. The objective is to develop and produce engaging media experiences that commemorate the semi-quincentennial of the Declaration of Independence, enhancing visitor interaction through sophisticated AV presentations. This project is significant as it aims to deepen public understanding of America's founding history while ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. Interested contractors should contact Olexiy Levchuk at olevchuk@loc.gov or Moji Adejuwon at moad@loc.gov for further details, with the contract performance period commencing in July 2025 and concluding with the exhibit's opening in February 2026.
Braille Transcription and Production IDIQ
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking contractors to provide Braille transcription and duplication services for the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS). This Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract will support the production of accessible reading materials, including braille books and tactile graphics, for U.S. residents and citizens living abroad who cannot read conventional print due to visual or physical limitations. The contract, valued between $12,000 and $37.1 million over its term, emphasizes adherence to established NLS specifications, quality control measures, and the capacity to fulfill production demands. Interested parties should submit proposals by April 23, 2025, and may contact Tiffany Lucas at tluc@loc.gov or Stephanie Boone at sboone@loc.gov for further information.
Intent to Sole Source - P1AL Merging Pyramix DAW
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking to award a sole source contract for maintenance and support of its Pyramix Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) equipment located at the Culpeper facility. The contract will provide essential services including software maintenance, updates, and troubleshooting, ensuring the equipment meets manufacturer specifications and operates efficiently. This procurement is critical for maintaining the Library's audio production capabilities, with an estimated contract value exceeding $250,000 and a performance period from June 3, 2025, to June 2, 2030. Interested firms must submit a capability statement to Brian D. Curl at bcurl@loc.gov by the specified deadline to demonstrate their qualifications for this specialized support.
Purchase of ColorTouch Spectrophotometer from Industrial Physics
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress intends to award a sole-source contract to Industrial Physics for the procurement of a ColorTouch Spectrophotometer, which is essential for enhancing its quality assurance program in testing materials according to ISO standards. This specialized equipment will replace outdated instruments and is critical for the Preservation Research and Testing Division to ensure high standards in the preservation of library collections. The contract includes the supply of the spectrophotometer, installation, user training, and a one-year warranty, with delivery expected within eight weeks of the purchase order and installation three weeks post-delivery. Interested parties can contact James Robinson at jarobinson@loc.gov or Jacqueline Miller at jacmiller@loc.gov for further information, with the contract valued below $250,000 and the performance period running from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
Services for Co-creation with Public Libraries
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking proposals for consulting services aimed at co-creating digital experiences with public libraries in Oklahoma and Ohio. The primary objectives include consulting on co-creation strategies, facilitating community engagement sessions, and synthesizing feedback from library staff and stakeholders to enhance public engagement through innovative digital solutions. This initiative, funded by a two-year grant received in 2024, emphasizes user-centered approaches to modernize outreach and collaboration with local communities. Interested contractors should contact Veronica Price at vprice@loc.gov or Kevin Barnes at kbarnes@loc.gov for further details, with the contract structured as a firm-fixed-price agreement and specific deadlines outlined in the solicitation documents.
ICI Hotel J&A
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking a contractor to provide lodging services for participants of the International Copyright Institute (ICI) educational program, which will take place from September 13 to September 21, 2025. The procurement involves supplying 26 hotel rooms in the vicinity of the Library of Congress, with specific requirements including queen beds, in-room safes suitable for laptops, and kitchen facilities featuring a refrigerator and microwave oven, all at GSA Per Diem rates. This initiative is crucial for educating foreign government officials from developing countries about U.S. Copyright law and policy, thereby fostering international collaboration. Interested vendors should contact Loren Fekete at LFekete@loc.gov or by phone at 202-961-5312 for further details regarding this opportunity.
SI for Machine Router Control
Buyer not available
The Library of Congress is seeking proposals for system integration services related to the Machine Router Control at the National Audio-Visual Conservation Center (NAVCC). The procurement aims to enhance the functionality of the existing Grass Valley N-Vision 9000 series video routing system by providing necessary hardware, installation materials, and technical documentation, along with video monitoring and digital conversion services. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the integrity and accessibility of the Library's extensive audiovisual collections, ensuring efficient signal routing and operational continuity. Interested contractors must submit their proposals electronically to the designated contacts, James Robinson and Brenda Kinlay, by the specified response date, with the evaluation based on technical volume, past performance, and price.