To RFP or Not to RFP: That is the Question

Abstract There are several methodologies tor selecting an integrated library system: sole source. Request l'or Information (RFI), and Request for Proposal (RFP). for example. Some libraries are moving away from the latter, arguing that it is time-consuming, takes too many staff resources, includes more detail than is needed, and results in a final outcome lhal is no different than if the system was selected in a more streamlined fashion. This article argues that the benefits of the RFP greatly outweigh other approaches. It also explores the University of Rochester's adoption of the RFP methodology and highlights successes with the model as well as aspects that could be strengthened.