In Conversation: Todd Nibbe on Library Spaces, Dog Rescue and the Joy of a Good Repair

by DENISE WOLFE

As facilities and operations supervisor for the University at Buffalo Libraries, Todd Nibbe brings a unique blend of hands-on know-how, creative problem-solving and community spirit to the role. Whether coordinating large-scale moves or addressing a broken chair, his focus is on creating safe, comfortable and functional spaces where students and staff can thrive.

With a background in communication, a deep commitment to sustainability and a serious talent for rescuing dogs and restoring old homes, Nibbe shares what drives his work — and why he wouldn’t want it any other way.

Q: How did your journey at UB begin?
A: I’m originally from Black River Falls, Wisconsin, and I came to UB after a brief stint at Winona State. I initially transferred into the architecture program but eventually switched to communication and graduated in 2004.

After that, I spent a decade doing a little bit of everything — working in theater, managing property, waiting tables, delivering pizza. In 2014, I was hired as the facilities and operations coordinator in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering. That role really helped shape the way I approach safety and systems today.

Q: What does your current role with the Libraries involve?
A: As facilities and operations supervisor, I work closely with our facilities planning and management officer and the head of security. Together, we look after all library-managed spaces across campus.

I handle everything from maintenance and custodial requests to office moves, provide support for space planning and support for larger capital projects. A big part of my work is ensuring that spaces function well and feel welcoming.

Q: What do you enjoy most about the work?
A: Honestly? The variety. No two days are the same. I love that we take input from students and staff seriously — if someone suggests an improvement and it’s doable, we make it happen. That collaborative environment is really rewarding.

I also like identifying potential safety issues before they become problems. That’s something I carried over from the engineering side of campus, where I had a lot of safety training.

Q: Can you tell us about any current projects you’re leading?
A: Right now, I’m leading the Lockwood Moving Team, which is tasked with relocating collections to the Annex while the library undergoes major renovations.

We’ve spent more than a year planning, testing workflows and making sure materials remain accessible. It’s a massive effort with a lot of moving parts, but I’m proud of the work we’re doing.

Q: You’re also active outside of your formal role. What are some other things you’re involved in at UB?
A: I’m the chair of the PSS Sustainable Living Committee, which is something I’m really passionate about. We organize several events each year, including a spring plant exchange and a large electronics recycling drive in the fall.

Sustainability has been part of my life since I was a kid — my family did Adopt-a-Highway and 4-H, so it’s always been part of who I am.

Q: What’s something people might not know about you?
A: I bought a house that was built in 1900 on the West Side a couple of years ago and have been restoring it room by room. The original woodwork was still there under layers of wear, and I’ve refinished floors, upgraded bathrooms and just completed a full foyer renovation.

It’s a labor of love — and a lot of dust!

Q: And you’ve fostered more than 100 dogs?
A: I started fostering in 2012 with a senior golden retriever named Tanner. After that, I was hooked. I’m a founding member and the current secretary of Awesome Paws Rescue.

We’ve placed dogs from high-kill shelters in the South and helped rehome local surrenders. I just adopted out my 118th foster, Repo, to a UB employee. Watching scared dogs transform and find loving homes is the best feeling.

Q: What keeps you motivated?
A: I like seeing potential — in people, in places, in dogs — and helping it shine. Whether I’m fixing up a space on campus, building a better event or helping a dog find a forever home, that’s what keeps me going.

It’s clear that for Nibbe, making things better — whether it’s a space, a system or a life — is all in a day’s work.