WebProNews

PBS has launched a video portal in beta featuring full-length videos from the public broadcaster.

The online videos will cover all PBS genres along with content from local PBS stations. Eventually, PBS will include feature - length films and documentaries, as well as live performances and events. More content will be added on a weekly basis.

Programming that will be available on pbs.org/video includes the American Experience, Antiques Roadshow, Frontline, Masterpiece Theatre, and Julia Child Cooking with Master Chefs.  PBS said it is also planning on offering original content on its portal.

The video portal will allow users to search shows by theme, episode, host and date. In addition, local PBS stations now have access to programming for their websites, as well as the ability to share their own locally produced content with national audiences.

"This launch illustrates our commitment to deliver PBS' signature programming to the widest possible market," said Jason Seiken, PBS senior vice president of Interactive.

"Our goal is to ensure that audiences have online access to the remarkable depth and breadth of PBS programming -- in a format that puts the user in control."

As part of the launch, the premiere epeisode of Time Team America will debut today on PBS.org before its national broadcast in July. The new series focuses on the most interesting archaeological dig sites in the U.S.