Photograph of Librarians Rachel Alexander and Jo Osborne

This black-and-white photo shows Worthington Public Library librarians Rachel Alexander (left, in the witch hat) and Jo Osborne (right). The photo, circa 1979 through 1981, was most likely taken around Halloween time, with both librarians sporting spider earrings.

Jo Osborne was a children's librarian at Worthington Libraries from 1979 until her death at age 59 in 1995. The Jo Osborne Award for Humor in Children's Literature was established in 1996 to honor her commitment to bringing children, books and humor together. The award recognizes the art of humor in either a single children's book or in the body of work of a children's literature author. As described in the brochure for the award, Jo "sought out the silly, the funny, the poignant, the witty for storytelling and puppet shows to impart a love of books to all the children who were lucky enough to cross her path" during her years as a librarian

Rachel Alexander worked for Worthington Libraries from 1976 to 1985, and again from 1997 to 2008; during that time she served many roles, including community services librarian, children’s librarian, youth services manager and youth services materials selector. Additionally, she served as chairperson for the Jo Osborne Award, leading a committee of librarians and teachers who selected the winners each year.