Category 1 Narrative for Form 470 1.1 The Scotland Public is seeking bids for standalone internet access for the library, which has existing dark fiber infrastructure and a 20 year dark fiber contract, and at speeds from 25 Mbps to 1 Gbps. 1.2. The award decision is made based on multiple factors, including the evaluated technical merit of the Vendor's proposal; the Vendor's past performance; and the evaluated probability of performing the requirements stated in the solicitation on time, with high quality, and in a manner that accomplishes the stated business objectives and maintains industry standards compliance. The library is seeking a multi-year contract of 5 years. 2. Other Factors. While the evaluation criteria rank highest the price of eligible goods and services (see table below such as those in the following list. Please indicate clearly whether you can provide for these needs in the space next to each item in your proposal. Failure to answer will result in the disqualification of your application. 2.1. Static IP addressing 2..2. Bandwidth burst capability 2..3. Connectivity to state library data systems (e.g., researchIT CT) 2..4. Connectivity to other research networks (e.g., Internet2) 2..5. Content Filtering 2..6. Direct connectivity to other content providers (e.g., Google, Microsoft) 2. 7. Flexible rates based on usage (e.g., 95th percentile billing) 2.8. Local Support 2..9. Security (e.g., DDoS) protections and consulting 3. Evaluation Criteria. As per E-rate rules, Vendor will be selected based on the most cost-effective solution. The price of E-rate eligible services and equipment will be the most heavily weighted factor in the bid evaluation. The scoring rubric is as follows: Evaluation Component/Points Available Price of the Eligible Goods and Services/40 Compatibility with existing fiber network at library/30 Local, in-state vendor/10 Other Factors/10 Customer Service and Past Performance/10 Total Possible Points/100 3.1. Vendor may be disqualified from any evaluation or award if Vendor or any key personnel proposed has previously failed to perform satisfactorily during the performance of any contract with the State or library member or violated rules or statutes applicable to public bidding in the State. 3.2 Vendor may be disqualified from any evaluation or award if Vendor fails to adhere to the requirements for responses as stated above. 3.3 Vendor may be disqualified from any evaluation or award if their bid is for internet service is not compatible with libraries existing fiber infrastructure and contract. 3.4 Award of Contract. The Vendor whose proposal is most advantageous to the Scotland Public Library taking into consideration the evaluation factors herein, will be recommended for contract award. Unless otherwise specified by the library or the Vendor, the Scotland Public Library reserves the right to accept any item or group of items on a multi-item proposal. 4. PROPOSAL Due by October 30, 2026. INFORMATION TO BE INCLUDED IN PROPOSAL: In addition to the other information required to be provided, Vendor also will include with their proposal responses to the following questions. Failure to full answers to each question will result in the disqualification of the proposal. 4.1. Your firms previous and ongoing relationship, if any, with the Scotland Public Library. 4.2. Proof that the Vendor and all subcontractors are authorized to do business in Connecticut. 4.3. Federal Tax ID Number, E-rate SPIN Number, and FCC Registration Number (FRN). 4.4. Contact name and contact information for person authorized to negotiate terms and conditions. 4.5. Contact name and contact information where questions related to the proposal can be directed with statement certifying that this person (or his/her authorized representative) will be available in October 2026 to assist with the completion of the Scotland Public Library E-rate applications, as requested. 4.6. Copy of terms and conditions for proposed contract. 5. Prospective Vendors must direct and confine all inquiries and communications concerning this procurement to the Library Director via email (spldirector@scotlandpubliclibrary.org). There are no Services Requested For Category 2

Scotland Public Library