This comprehensive presentation of the Request for Proposal (RFP) process shows librarians how to successfully prepare RFPs when determining which vendors to use for purchasing library materials. Contending that the straight bid process, where only costs and discount rates are considered, does not offer the best options for libraries, the authors provide information on every facet of the RFP process--from philosophical and pragmatic reasons for writing an RFP to evaluation of responses and awarding of contracts to transferring titles and evaluation of vendor services and products. All of the material in this book can be transferred to any kind of RFP for any kind of library materials. Special features include chapters on the acquisition of specialized materials (e.g., science, technology, fine arts) and foreign materials, and specific information on electronic/automated services. Appendixes contain samples of the cover letter, questions for various sections and types of RFPs, and evaluation criteria