PBS (Public Broadcasting Service) is the United States’ primary public broadcaster, known for its non‑commercial television programming that emphasizes education, culture, and civic engagement.

Founded in 1969 as the successor to National Educational Television, PBS is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. It operates as a network of more than 350 member stations across the country, many of which are affiliated with universities, community organizations, or state governments. Unlike commercial broadcasters, PBS does not rely on advertising revenue; instead, it is funded through a mix of member station dues, viewer donations, corporate sponsorships, and support from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. This funding model allows PBS to maintain editorial independence and focus on programming that serves the public interest.

PBS has become synonymous with high‑quality educational and cultural programming. Its catalog includes acclaimed documentaries (Frontline, American Experience), science series (Nova), arts showcases (Masterpiece), and trusted news programs (PBS NewsHour, Washington Week). Equally influential is PBS’s children’s programming, with classics like Sesame Street, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, and Arthur shaping generations of young viewers. By combining entertainment with learning, PBS has earned a reputation as “America’s largest classroom” and “the nation’s stage for the arts”.

Beyond television, PBS has expanded into digital platforms, streaming services, and educational initiatives that reach classrooms and homes nationwide. Its mission is to provide content that informs, inspires, and reflects the diversity of American society. With a commitment to accessibility, PBS programming is available free‑to‑air and often spills over into Canada and Mexico. Today, PBS stands as a trusted window to the world, offering audiences programming that blends cultural depth, scientific inquiry, and civic responsibility.