Bonzo is turning 11 years old.

So it’s time for the Wheaten Terrier to take off his reading glasses and retire from his regular gig at the Goochland Library, said his owner, social worker Dave Dilzer last week.

Dilzer and Bonzo have been regulars at the library for the last few years, having held 40 or more sessions with youngsters to help them with their reading skills.

Ashley Brown, who brought her two children last Wednesday evening, can attest to that.

Both Michael, 7, and his sister Megan, 8, were reading ot Bonzo, who lay quietly with his lensless plastic glasses on the floor of one of the small study rooms. 

“He helps them build confidence in their reading,” said Brown. He helped Megan go from a C to an A grade in her reading class at Goochland Elementary School, said Brown.

Dilzer said he hopes any child who has ever read to Bonzo will come to his retirement party next month.

That’s on March 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the library.

“We’re goint to celebrate his retirement,” said Dilzer.  “He’s going out on top.

Dilzer also is sending out the call for Bonzo’s replacement.

“We want to encourage anyone out there to get their dog to do this,”  he said.

If you think your pooch could be a therapy dog, visit the Delta Society’s Web site at www.deltasociety.org to find out more about it all.

And see you at Bonzo’s retirement party!