It is with great sadness that the University at Buffalo Libraries has lost a highly valued staff member, Ms. Rita Ferri. Rita worked for UB Libraries for over 20 years as building manager for Abbott Library on the South Campus, and prior to that, she worked for several years at Student Life on the North Campus.
Valuing an education, Rita graduated from Buffalo State University while raising her daughter, Angela, as a single mother. Rita believed it was important for women to pursue a college education and wanted to serve as a role model for her daughter.
As building manager, Rita was the go-to person for many of the staff’s and library administration’s operations and facilities needs. If library staff had a question about the Libraries they could not answer, the mantra was: “Go ask Rita.” She was a liaison to all facilities and service departments on South Campus, building strong, respectful working relationships with them, knowing how to accomplish library needs.
She also served as a contact point for special library events and university activities held in Abbott Library, helping to ensure that these events ran smoothly and successfully from a maintenance and support perspective.
Rita prided herself on maintaining one of the most historic and beautiful buildings on campus. Thanks to her work and attention to detail, those who visited Abbott Library felt the same.
Rita was also a good friend to many of us. We shared stories of our families and activities, commiserated over our aches and pains, and enjoyed each other’s company. It was always a pleasure to arrive at work and say “Hi!” to her as we passed by Rita’s office. She was central to our quality of work life.
Rita, you will be missed!