Bonnie Doshier File photo

Longtime community volunteer Bonnie Doshier, known as “Grammy” to the many children at the Idyllwild Library’s story-time sessions, is leaving the Hill in mid-July.

Doshier, who has lived full-time in Fern Valley since 1995, epitomizes the volunteer spirit that supports so many services to the community. In addition to her work for the Friends of the Idyllwild Library, for 15 years as a reader for the children as well as serving during various periods as Friends hospitality and volunteer coordinator, Doshier has been active in the Idyllwild Area Historical Society, the Philanthropic Educational Organization (“the nutty ladies”), Mountain Quilters of Idyllwild and the Community Presbyterian Church where she taught Sunday school.

Doshier was part of the Friends committee that visited new libraries throughout the county as designs for the recently completed new Idyllwild Library were being made and revised by HMC Architects of Ontario. As a result of the committee’s efforts, the Strawberry Plaza library incorporates many suggestions that have made the new library as practical and inviting as it is. As the Friends had envisioned, the library has become a community center, used by Hill residents of all age groups. “I’m very happy how the library turned out,” said Doshier, in an interview at the new library.

During the interview, children began gathering in the sun-filled children’s room for story time. Looking at the children and their mothers, Doshier said, “The children’s program was my passion. There are now so many young mothers bringing their children and forming friendships. I’ve enjoyed the parents so much. ”

Doshier, who had brought previous experience in childhood education to her work with the Friends, helped recruit readers for the Idyllwild Library children’s program. She is confident the program will continue unabated under new librarian Shannon Ng. “We have such a good working relationship with Shannon,” said Doshier. “I can’t say enough about how helpful she is.”

Doshier noted that current readers include Mary Zimmerman, Rachel Torrey, Tawney Harrington, Virginia Lumb and Heidi Tiso, and that the program remains strong.

Doshier is self-effacing about her community service, preferring to acknowledge how many others contribute to the common good. “I’ve always admired how the people of Idyllwild work together,” said Doshier.

Doshier will be moving to Calimesa. Her son will live with her and nephews will be on hand to offer support. “One of the things that gives me peace,” she said, “is that I’ll be returning to Idyllwild at least once a month — to go to church and to keep my connection with PEO, and, of course Idyllwild. There is such a spirit about this place.”

It is a spirit that Doshier exemplifies.