Your Guide to Iowa Public Television Stations
Iowa Public Television, known as Iowa PBS, provides Iowans with enriching and educational content through its network of stations. As the sole statewide television network, Iowa PBS strives to inform, inspire, and connect communities across the state. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Iowa’s public television stations, including channel listings, subchannels, viewing options, and program ratings.
Exploring Iowa PBS Channel Options
Iowa PBS broadcasts across the state through a robust network of stations and subchannels, ensuring accessibility for all Iowans.
Main Iowa Public Television Station Channels
The primary Iowa PBS channel (.1) can be found on various channel numbers depending on your location:
- Council Bluffs: Channel 32
- Davenport: Channel 36
- Decorah: Channel 24
- Des Moines: Channel 11
- Fort Dodge: Channel 21
- Fort Madison: Channel 12
- Iowa City: Channel 12
- Keokuk: Channel 12
- Keosauqua: Channel 12
- Lansing: Channel 24
- Mason City: Channel 24
- Ottumwa: Channel 12
- Red Oak: Channel 36
- Rock Rapids: Channel 27
- Sibley: Channel 27
- Sioux City: Channel 27
- Waterloo: Channel 32
Iowa PBS Subchannels: Expanding Programming Choices
Beyond the main channel, Iowa PBS offers diverse programming through its subchannels:
- Iowa PBS KIDS .2: Dedicated children’s programming.
- Iowa PBS WORLD .3: International news and documentaries.
- Iowa PBS Create .4: Arts, culture, and how-to programs.
Map illustrating the statewide coverage of Iowa PBS broadcasting network.
Accessing Iowa Public Television Stations
Viewers can access Iowa PBS through various methods, including over-the-air antennas, cable, and satellite providers.
Over-the-Air Reception and Channel Rescanning
For those using antennas, periodic channel rescanning is necessary to ensure access to all available channels, including subchannels. Consult your television or converter box manual for specific instructions on how to perform a channel scan. This process usually involves navigating to the “Setup” menu and selecting “Auto Scan,” “Auto Program,” or a similar option.
Cable and Satellite Providers
Iowa PBS offers all four of its channels to cable and satellite companies. However, the inclusion and channel placement of these channels are determined by the individual providers. Mediacom, for example, carries Iowa PBS KIDS .2 on channel 794, Iowa PBS WORLD .3 on channel 119, and Iowa PBS Create .4 on channel 118. Contact your cable or satellite provider directly to confirm channel availability and numbers. Satellite providers currently do not offer PBS KIDS .2, PBS WORLD .3, or Iowa PBS Create .4.
Alternative Viewing: Streaming and Online Options
If your cable or satellite package doesn’t include all Iowa PBS channels, consider alternative viewing options. Utilizing an antenna connected to your television allows access to over-the-air broadcasts. Additionally, Iowa PBS .1 offers livestreaming on its website, alongside on-demand content and behind-the-scenes extras. The PBS Video App, available on various devices, provides another avenue for streaming favorite programs.
Understanding Iowa PBS Program Ratings
Iowa PBS utilizes the TV Parental Guidelines rating system to help viewers make informed decisions about program content. These ratings appear at the beginning of each program and indicate the suitability for various age groups based on content such as violence, language, and sexual themes. Ratings range from TV-Y (suitable for all children) to TV-MA (mature audiences only). Each rating offers specific criteria, allowing parents and viewers to select programming aligned with their preferences.
Connect with Iowa’s Public Broadcasting
Iowa’s public television stations offer a diverse range of programming, catering to various interests and age groups. Through multiple channels and viewing options, Iowa PBS strives to serve its community with quality content accessible to all Iowans. Utilize this guide to navigate the world of Iowa public television and discover enriching programming.