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Architect Hiring Packet
DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility
Prepared by: DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control
Date:  
Purpose of This Packet
This packet includes all necessary materials and planning tools required for conducting a compliant and organized architectural hiring process for the DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility in accordance with Louisiana public procurement laws.
Checklist of Contents
? 1. Request for Qualifications (RFQ) – Architectural Services
? 2. Architect Selection Scoring Sheet
? 3. Sample Timeline for Selection Process
? 4. Cover Letter or RFQ Release Notification (optional)
? 5. Library Board Approval Documentation (to be added after selection)
? 6. Notes from Selection Committee Meetings (as required by Open Meetings Law)
Instructions
All committee members should be familiar with the scoring criteria and timeline. Ensure that proper notice is given for public board votes or interviews.















Request for Qualifications (RFQ): Architectural Services
Issued by: DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control
Project Title: DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility
Issue Date:  
Submission Deadline: 

1. Project Overview

The DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control is seeking Statements of Qualifications from licensed architectural firms to provide design and construction administration services for the construction of a new public Makerspace Facility in DeSoto Parish, Louisiana. The facility is expected to be approximately 10,000–12,000 square feet and include multiple specialized studios, public amenities, support spaces, and parking.

2. Scope of Services

•  Schematic design and cost estimation
•  Design development and construction documents
•  Assistance with permitting and regulatory compliance
•  Bidding and contractor selection support
•  Construction administration and project close-out

3. Submission Requirements
? Letter of Interest
? Firm profile and qualifications
? Résumés of key personnel
? Relevant experience (especially on public, educational, or creative facilities)
? References (minimum of 3)
? Proof of licensure with Louisiana State Board of Architectural Examiners
4. Evaluation Criteria
? Firm and staff qualifications and experience (30 points)
? Similar project experience (25 points)
? Project understanding and methodology (20 points)
? References and past performance (15 points)
? Proximity to DeSoto Parish / availability (10 points)

5. Submittal Instructions
All Statements of Qualification must be received by [insert time] on [insert date]. Submit [number] printed copies and one digital version (PDF format) to:
Delbert Terry, Library Director
Email: [email protected] 
Bill Smith, Library Assistant Director
Email: [email protected] 
DeSoto Parish Library
109 Crosby Street
Mansfield, LA 71052

6. General Provisions
The Library Board of Control reserves the right to reject any or all submissions and to waive informalities in the RFQ process. This is a Qualifications-Based Selection process and no pricing shall be submitted at this time. 



















Architect Selection Scoring Sheet
Project: DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility
Reviewer: ___________________________   Date: _______________
Scoring Criteria
Score each category from 0–10. Multiply by the listed weight to determine weighted score.
Criteria Max Points Score Given Weighted Score
Firm and Staff Qualifications 30
Relevant Project Experience 25
Project Understanding & Approach 20
Past Performance & References 15
Availability/Proximity 10
Total Score: ____________ / 100
Reviewer Notes













Timeline – Architect Selection Process
Project: DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility
Estimated Process Duration: 6–8 Weeks

Week Task
Week 1 Issue RFQ to the public via newspaper, LaPAC, library website.
Week 2–3 Accept submissions; respond to public inquiries.
Week 4 RFQ Submission Deadline. Distribute submissions to committee.
Week 5 Selection Committee meets to score and evaluate proposals.
Week 6 Conduct interviews with top-ranked firms (optional).
Week 7 Notify selected firm and begin contract negotiations.
Week 8 Board approval of architect contract and public award announcement.
*Timeline is flexible based on board meeting dates and availability of finalists.
*All steps must comply with Louisiana Public Bid and Open Meetings Law.

















June 2, 2025



RE: Request for Qualifications – Architectural Services
Project: DeSoto Parish Library  Makerspace Facility Project  
Dear [Architectural Firm Name / To Whom It May Concern],
The DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control is pleased to announce the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for architectural services for the development and construction of a state-of-the-art Makerspace Facility. This innovative facility will serve as a county-wide hub for hands-on learning, creative exploration, career preparation, and digital literacy. The Makerspace will be designed to house multiple studios—including Robotics, Culinary, Music & Film, Sewing & Cricut, Circuitry, Drone, Innovation, and AI & Emerging Technologies—as well as support areas such as a testing lab, staff offices, security/data rooms, library materials area, and commons.
The building is estimated to range from 10,000 to 12,000 square feet, located in DeSoto Parish, Louisiana, and will support programming for all ages and skill levels. The project is fully funded with no required financial contribution from the Police Jury or outside parties. The architect will work closely with library leadership to ensure the building’s design fulfills the Makerspace Building and Use Program, is ADA-compliant, energy efficient, safe, and future-ready for evolving community and technological needs.
We are seeking qualified architectural firms with demonstrated experience in public library facilities, community-centered design, and compliance with Louisiana public works regulations. The selected firm will assist the Library in providing design services that are innovative, cost-effective, and responsive to the needs of our diverse patron base.
Key Dates:
• RFQ Issue Date: 
• Submission Deadline: 
• Pre-Submission Meeting (if applicable): 
• Contact for Questions:  
Firms interested in responding may obtain the full RFQ package by visiting the Central Auction House website at www.centralauctionhouse.com or by contacting our administrative office directly.
Submissions should be delivered in a sealed envelope clearly marked “RFQ – Architectural Services – DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility” and must be received by the deadline stated above. Late submissions will not be considered.
The DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control reserves the right to reject any or all responses, to waive informalities, and to accept the proposal deemed most advantageous to the Library.
Thank you for your interest in partnering with the DeSoto Parish Library to enhance services for our community.
Sincerely,
Delbert Terry
Library Director
DeSoto Parish Library
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (318) 872-6100
Bill Smith
Assistant Library Director
DeSoto Parish Library
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (318) 872-6100



Architect Hiring Packet 
DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility
Prepared by: DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control
Date: 
 
Purpose of This Packet 
This packet includes all necessary materials and planning tools required for conducting a compliant and organized architectural hiring process for the DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility in accordance with Louisiana public procurement laws.
 
Checklist of Contents 
? 1. Request for Qualifications (RFQ) – Architectural Services
? 2. Architect Selection Scoring Sheet
? 3. Sample Timeline for Selection Process
? 4. Cover Letter or RFQ Release Notification (optional)
? 5. Library Board Approval Documentation (to be added after selection)
? 6. Notes from Selection Committee Meetings (as required by Open Meetings Law)
 
Instructions 
All committee members should be familiar with the scoring criteria and timeline. Ensure that proper notice is given for public board votes or interviews.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Request for Qualifications (RFQ): Architectural Services 
Issued by: DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control
Project Title: DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility
Issue Date: 
Submission Deadline:
 
1. Project Overview 
The DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control is seeking Statements of Qualifications from licensed architectural firms to provide design and construction administration services for the construction of a new public Makerspace Facility in DeSoto Parish, Louisiana. The facility is expected to be approximately 10,000–12,000 square feet and include multiple specialized studios, public amenities, support spaces, and parking.
 
2. Scope of Services 
Schematic design and cost estimation
Design development and construction documents
Assistance with permitting and regulatory compliance
Bidding and contractor selection support
Construction administration and project close-out 
3. Submission Requirements 
Letter of Interest
Firm profile and qualifications
Résumés of key personnel
Relevant experience (especially on public, educational, or creative facilities)
References (minimum of 3)
Proof of licensure with Louisiana State Board of Architectural Examiners 
4. Evaluation Criteria 
Firm and staff qualifications and experience (30 points)
Similar project experience (25 points)
Project understanding and methodology (20 points)
References and past performance (15 points)
Proximity to DeSoto Parish / availability (10 points) 
 
5. Submittal Instructions 
All Statements of Qualification must be received by [insert time] on [insert date]. Submit [number] printed copies and one digital version (PDF format) to:

Delbert Terry, Library Director
Email: [email protected]
 
Bill Smith, Library Assistant Director
Email: [email protected]
 
DeSoto Parish Library
109 Crosby Street
Mansfield, LA 71052


 
6. General Provisions 
The Library Board of Control reserves the right to reject any or all submissions and to waive informalities in the RFQ process. This is a Qualifications-Based Selection process and no pricing shall be submitted at this time.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Architect Selection Scoring Sheet 
Project: DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility
Reviewer: ___________________________   Date: _______________
 
Scoring Criteria 
Score each category from 0–10. Multiply by the listed weight to determine weighted score.
 
Criteria
Max Points
Score Given
 
Weighted Score
Firm and Staff Qualifications
30
 
 
 
Relevant Project Experience
25
 
 
 
Project Understanding & Approach
20
 
 
 
Past Performance & References
15
 
 
 
Availability/Proximity
10
 
 
 

Total Score: ____________ / 100
 
Reviewer Notes 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Timeline – Architect Selection Process 
Project: DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility
 
Estimated Process Duration: 6–8 Weeks 
 
Week
Task
Week 1
Issue RFQ to the public via newspaper, LaPAC, library website.
Week 2–3
Accept submissions; respond to public inquiries.
Week 4
RFQ Submission Deadline. Distribute submissions to committee.
Week 5
Selection Committee meets to score and evaluate proposals.
Week 6
Conduct interviews with top-ranked firms (optional).
Week 7
Notify selected firm and begin contract negotiations.
Week 8
Board approval of architect contract and public award announcement.

*Timeline is flexible based on board meeting dates and availability of finalists.
*All steps must comply with Louisiana Public Bid and Open Meetings Law.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

June 2, 2025
 
 
 
 
RE: Request for Qualifications – Architectural Services
Project: DeSoto Parish Library  Makerspace Facility Project  
 
Dear [Architectural Firm Name / To Whom It May Concern],
 
The DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control is pleased to announce the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for architectural services for the development and construction of a state-of-the-art Makerspace Facility. This innovative facility will serve as a county-wide hub for hands-on learning, creative exploration, career preparation, and digital literacy. The Makerspace will be designed to house multiple studios—including Robotics, Culinary, Music & Film, Sewing & Cricut, Circuitry, Drone, Innovation, and AI & Emerging Technologies—as well as support areas such as a testing lab, staff offices, security/data rooms, library materials area, and commons.
 
The building is estimated to range from 10,000 to 12,000 square feet, located in DeSoto Parish, Louisiana, and will support programming for all ages and skill levels. The project is fully funded with no required financial contribution from the Police Jury or outside parties. The architect will work closely with library leadership to ensure the building’s design fulfills the Makerspace Building and Use Program, is ADA-compliant, energy efficient, safe, and future-ready for evolving community and technological needs.
 
We are seeking qualified architectural firms with demonstrated experience in public library facilities, community-centered design, and compliance with Louisiana public works regulations. The selected firm will assist the Library in providing design services that are innovative, cost-effective, and responsive to the needs of our diverse patron base.
 
Key Dates:
RFQ Issue Date:
Submission Deadline:
Pre-Submission Meeting (if applicable):
Contact for Questions:  
Firms interested in responding may obtain the full RFQ package by visiting the Central Auction House website at www.centralauctionhouse.com or by contacting our administrative office directly.
 
Submissions should be delivered in a sealed envelope clearly marked “RFQ – Architectural Services – DeSoto Parish Library Makerspace Facility” and must be received by the deadline stated above. Late submissions will not be considered.
 
The DeSoto Parish Library Board of Control reserves the right to reject any or all responses, to waive informalities, and to accept the proposal deemed most advantageous to the Library.
 
Thank you for your interest in partnering with the DeSoto Parish Library to enhance services for our community.
 
Sincerely,


Delbert Terry
Library Director
DeSoto Parish Library
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (318) 872-6100
 
Bill Smith
Assistant Library Director
DeSoto Parish Library
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (318) 872-6100