A PBS Evolution, Not Revolution

Some readers may have found the article “Changing the Mix of PBS Programs” (by Sharon Bernstein, Aug. 17) unsettling, suggesting as it did that things are changing at PBS. Let me assure them that any change in public television will be evolutionary, rather than revolutionary.

Even though public television is changing some of the ways it does business, certain things won’t change. We will continue to be dedicated to public service. We will continue to provide information, education and cultural enrichment through our programming. We are committed to intelligent television, and I have no intention of imitating commercial television. I do want more viewers for our programs, but I don’t think we must become MTV in order to attract them.

The article leaves the impression that I and I alone will determine the PBS national program schedule. The reality is I’ll be getting plenty of advice and counsel, which I welcome. There has been, and will continue to be, consultations between PBS, stations and other producers.

While the stations will be ceding some authority, they are gaining new accountability in the process. Under the new plan, there is now someone accountable--PBS--which means stations’ judgments about the schedule can result in quicker course adjustments and improvements.

JENNIFER LAWSON

Executive Vice President

National Programming

and Promotion Services, PBS