We look forward to getting your question or comment. The information you seek may be found in our FAQ. If not, please fill out and submit the form below. We will do our best to respond to you in a timely manner.

When will a program be broadcast again?

How can I purchase a copy of an Independent Lens program?

My station never carries Independent Lens at the time I see advertised, Tuesdays at 10 P.M. What's the deal?

How can I find out if or when a program is airing on my public television station?

How do I learn more about a film on Independent Lens?

What happens with social issue programs beyond the Independent Lens broadcast?

How can I learn more about independent film?

How can I submit my film to be considered for Independent Lens?

I submitted my comment to Talkback, yet I don’t see it posted. Why?

I’m a teacher. Can I tape a program and use it in my classroom?

When will a program be broadcast again?

Each PBS station decides how to program their schedule and when to rebroadcast Independent Lens programs.

Your best bet is to check your local listings for the Independent Lens schedule for your area. Listings are shown for the upcoming two weeks. If you don't see the particular program—or any Independent Lens broadcast information, that means that your station will not be airing the series within the next two weeks. Please note that Independent Lens typically airs during the fall, winter and spring months. During the summer, be sure to check out P.O.V., our sister series for independent film and documentary on PBS.

We recommend that you contact your local station directly to let them know if you are interested in seeing an Independent Lens program rebroadcast, or to inquire about any future plans to show the program.

Where can I purchase a copy of an Independent Lens program?

Visit our Program Guide to find the film you are interested in purchasing. Click on the “Website” icon and it will take you to the companion site for the film. On each companion site there is a “Get the Video” navigation link in the left margin. Click on this link and a window will pop up with information on purchasing a videotape or DVD. Please note that not all films are available for purchase, as video distribution is at the discretion of the producer and the costs for clearance rights are often too high for independent filmmakers’ budgets.

My station never carries Independent Lens at the time I see advertised, Tuesdays at 10 P.M. What's the deal?

PBS is not a network (like NBC or HBO). Each local PBS station has autonomy over their schedule, and may air programs whenever they choose. So while Independent Lens is on the PBS national schedule for Tuesday nights at 10 P.M., local stations make their own decisions about when to air Independent Lens programs. Feel free to contact your local station if you have any questions or comments about their scheduling of Independent Lens.

How can I find out if or when a program is airing on my public television station?

Sign up for the Independent Lens e-newsletter, which will arrive in your inbox weekly during the broadcast season (fall through spring). The newsletter will remind you about upcoming Independent Lens programs and update you about companion Web sites and Web-exclusive features launching on Independent Lens and Inside Indies.

How do I learn more about a film on Independent Lens?

Visit the Independent Lens Program Guide for a full list of programs or go the upper right corner of this site and use the “Indie Lens Search” feature to type in the name of the film. Either choice will bring you just a click away from the companion Web site for the film.

What happens with social issue programs beyond the Independent Lens broadcast?

Community engagement is at the forefront of ITVS Community, extending impact by cultivating new audiences, advancing civic dialogue and transforming independent films into tools for education and action. Visit Get Involved to find out more.

How can I learn more about independent film?

Take an inside look at the world of indie filmmaking. Independent Lens presents Inside Indies, a destination for filmmakers and film fans alike. Get the scoop with great resources, exclusive articles, interviews, film picks and fresh content every other month.

How can I submit my film to be considered for Independent Lens?

Independent Lens is an acquisition series and accepts only very advanced fine cuts and completed works of all genres and lengths. Although primarily a nonfiction series, dramas, experimental and short works are also welcome. For information on submitting a film to Independent Lens, read the submission guidelines.

I submitted my comment to Talkback, yet I don’t see it posted. Why?

We review all Talkback comments before posting to make sure that they meet our guidelines. Once we’ve done that (it can take as long as two business days), we post selected comments. We welcome all points of view and thank you for your submission. Read the talkback guidelines to find out what will not be posted.

I’m a teacher. Can I tape a program and use it in my classroom?

Most Independent Lens programs can be taped off-air and used for educational purposes (grades K through 12) for up to one year following the broadcast date. In certain cases, this period may vary. For more information about off-air taping rights, visit PBS TeacherSource for a multitude of educator materials. Please be sure to visit the Independent Lens companion Web sites for lesson plans, Learn More links and other resources.