Value PBS
Public Broadcast is One of America’s Best Investments
In a 2023 survey, 66 percent of respondents said PBS is an “excellent” or “good” value, falling only behind the country’s military defense (73 percent). PBS rated higher on this measure than other taxpayer-funded benefits such as social security, agriculture subsidies, infrastructure and environmental protections.”
PBS Content and Services are Available for Free Across America
For many Americans right here in Cincinnati and Dayton, our stations are their connection to the world. It may be their only opportunity to see a Broadway show, visit a National Park, access non-commercial public affairs programming, or receive critical emergency alerts. We are also proud to be providing that content across platforms.
First in Public Trust
For the 21st consecutive year, a nationwide study in 2023 confirmed that PBS and its member stations are rated #1 in public trust. At a time when public trust in national institutions is eroding, confidence in PBS remains strong.
PBS is the Most Trusted Source for News and Public Affairs
When asked which networks they trust most when it comes to news and public affairs programming, survey respondents ranked PBS #1, ahead of the major broadcast and cable news networks. We are proud to produce Brick by Brick: Solutions for a Thriving Community right here in Cincinnati and Dayton.
Non-commercial and Free to All Americans
CET and ThinkTV bring quality, non-commercial, trusted programming to millions of people right here in our communities without a fee, subscription service or fancy equipment. While our programs are available on smart devices, YouTube and however you stream programming, you can also watch our channels simply by setting up an antenna.
Thousands of Resources for Educators
We are committed to bringing the power of media into the classroom – helping educators to engage students in new and different ways. PBS LearningMedia is an online destination that offers free access to thousands of resources from PBS member stations and partners. We also provide training and educational services to teachers right here in Cincinnati and Dayton.
Americans rate PBS highly in terms of value for tax dollars
PBS’s broadcast signal is uniquely important to the millions of American households, particularly in rural areas, that lack access to reliable and affordable broadband internet. Public Broadcasting makes up about a hundredth of a percent of the federal budget and, at CET and ThinkTV, accounts for about 16 percent of our funding. The cost per American is about $1.60 per year.
PBS KIDS is Watched by Millions of Children
Our stations reach more children, and more parents of young children, in low-income homes than any children’s TV network. Additionally, PBS KIDS averages 15.5 million monthly users and 345 million monthly streams across PBS digital platforms. Our services are available 24/7, no matter what kind of device your family does – or doesn’t – have.
Parents Name PBS KIDS the Most Educational Media Brand
More than 80 percent of those surveyed named PBS KIDS the most educational media brand for children, substantially outscoring the second-most highly rated kids brand Nick Jr. at 45 percent. Our programming is scientifically-backed to support school readiness, especially for children who don’t have access to formal preschool.
Explore the Value of PBS
PBS Supports Education
PBS member stations provide essential education resources for learners of all ages.
