Hutchinson ? Libraries across the state will be tracking their patrons Tuesday in an effort to show how valuable libraries are to Kansans.

The project is conducted by the Kansas Library Association, the Kansas Association of School Libraries and the State Library of Kansas. Patrons will be asked what library services they use and what makes the library important to them.

Hutchinson Library Director Gregg Wamsley says the data compiled will help the State Library lobby lawmakers to assure funding for libraries.

The Hutchinson News reports that data collected in last year’s snapshot found that in one day, Kansas libraries welcomed 39,037 people and loaned 75,827 items. They also answered 4,411 reference questions, connected 10,859 users to the Internet and supported 1,945 Kansans in their job searches.