About the Open to the Public initiative

The Open to the Public (OTTP) initiative seeks to make public broadcasting more accessible to the public it serves. Through OTTP, viewers and listeners are able to voice their opinions about public broadcasting's services directly to CPB's board and management, and to the broader public broadcasting system as well. To encourage submission of comments, CPB maintains a toll-free, 24-hour telephone line (1-800-272-2190), an online contact form, and accepts letters sent directly to CPB.

All comments on programming are compiled in the annual “Open to the Public” report. Monthly updates on comments received will be posted to this page and also provided to the Board. Incoming messages can be broken down into two categories: comments on programming and programming ideas, with each divided into sections addressing television or radio.

Messages regarding programming are shared with CPB’s Ombudsman. There is no consultation or collaboration between CPB staff and the Ombudsman on how the Ombudsman addresses the public’s correspondence.

About CPB

CPB promotes the growth and development of public media in communities throughout America.

Programs & Projects

CPB awards grants to stations and independent producers to create programs and services.