Print Books & Standing Orders
Framework Description
APUC's Print Books & Standing Orders framework (Public Contracts Scotland ref. JUL534486) supplies printed books and standing orders to university and college libraries. It has 2 lots: English language and UK non-English language publications, and international language publications. Applications for this framework are closed (it is not a DPS), and it runs to 2 November 2027 with an option to extend by 24 months to 2 November 2029.
Context & Use Case
Academic libraries use it to buy reading list titles, research monographs and reference works, and to set up standing orders for continuing series so each new volume arrives without a separate order. The international lot serves modern languages and area studies collections that need books published abroad. Library acquisitions teams typically place orders through supplier systems linked to their library platform.
Scope of Services
English language and UK non-English language publications International language publications Standing orders for continuing series Cataloguing and processing of new acquisitions Delivery of print materials to libraries
Lots
English language and UK non-English language publications; International language publications
Who Can Apply
Suits library booksellers and library supply specialists, including those with international sourcing networks for foreign language titles. Applications for this framework are closed, so suppliers not appointed cannot join until APUC re-tenders it, around 2 November 2027 or November 2029 if extended.
Buyer Benefits
Libraries get agreed discounts and servicing terms from suppliers who already handle shelf-ready processing and standing orders, which saves staff time on every book. A separate international lot means hard-to-source foreign titles come from specialists rather than a generalist struggling with overseas publishers.
Next Steps
Read the Public Contracts Scotland notice (JUL534486) for the lot structure and criteria. Appointed suppliers should keep fill rates and delivery times high, as these shape both call-offs and the extension decision. Others should gather evidence on discounts, shelf-ready servicing, supply speed and foreign language sourcing ahead of the re-tender.
How Athena Can Help
Library supply tenders often hinge on servicing detail and discount structure. Our bookseller bid writing sets out fill rates, shelf-ready processing and service clearly against the criteria, and we model discount levels that win without wiping out margin.
If you are not appointed, our library supply framework planning prepares for APUC's re-tender and other sector frameworks. Our advice on bidding to universities helps you choose between the two lots and set social value commitments you can keep.
