The Billings Public Library provides computer access including internet, office production software, PC games and printing services for over 75,000 patron sessions per year.  In addition, public technology classes and staff trainings are hosted in a computer lab on a daily basis. When the new library opens, the number of public workstations will increase from 63 to 83.  Library staff must physically go to the machines to complete maintenance tasks.  Centralized network management of public workstations will save staff time, energy costs and client hardware costs. Efficiencies in staff time will be realized as installation, maintenance and updates are pushed out from a central server.  Hardware at each station will be minimized through the use of all-in-one computers, monitor and CPU in one unit. Ongoing costs of ownership will decrease as the smaller units use less electricity and generate less heat in the building. The system requires a central server, client hardware and software licensing.  The technology to design and implement the managed desktop environment is new to the Library, thus requiring assistance from a consulting technology expert. 

The project was advertised in The Billings Times on April 18, 2013 and April 25, 2013 and was posted on the City’s website.  Five proposals were received by the deadline of Thursday, May 2, 2013.  The proposals were evaluated on Tuesday, May 14, 2013, by a committee including Library and City IT and Purchasing staff.  Two of the five proposals were considered by the committee to be viable.  High Point Networks was selected as the contractor with the most responsive solution and lowest bid.

CONTRACTOR                   BID       
High Point Networks     $154,992.00
CompuNet Inc.             $256,071.38

The City Council may:
• Approve the contract with High Point Networks for the Library’s Managed Desktop project; or
• Decline to approve a contract with High Point Networks for the project.

The total cost of this project is $154,992.  Funding for the project is available from Library reserves.

Staff recommends the City Council approve a contract for the Library Managed Desktop project with High Point Networks for $154,992.