The vendor is required to provide comprehensive textbook, course material, and merchandise operations services. The operation should efficiently balance textbook offerings with a variety of affordable additional merchandise, such as educational supplies, approved apparel, graduation regalia, and other college-branded items.

Applicants are expected to propose innovative and creative approaches to the traditional university bookstore model, potentially including an extensive inventory of both new and used physical books, digital materials, and open educational resources. Additional considerations may include price matching programs, online sales, integration with learning management systems allowing single sign-on, direct shipping to students, locker pickup options, textbook rentals, pop-up retail locations during peak periods, and other non-traditional service models.

Innovation in the design, layout, services, and range of product offerings is highly encouraged. Proposals should also address campus marketing and name recognition, developing branding partnerships, and potentially hosting speakers and performers. The service must support multiple platforms for students and staff to opt in, access, and utilize the program, such as dedicated web portals and mobile device compatibility.