WQPT connects our region’s communities through public media. We deliver enriching programming to a potential viewing audience of approximately 824,000 people, free to all, regardless of ZIP code or income level. As the region’s only locally-owned and independently-managed television station, WQPT operates with a public service mission, not with commercial interest. However, being called a TV station is almost a misnomer because we’re not just a media outlet. We are a community partner. To fulfill our public service mission, we rely on local support, including individual donations (memberships), corporate and underwriting sponsorships, and local foundation grants.

With this support, we are able to offer diverse programming on streaming platforms like the free PBS App and YouTube, as well as over-the-air on two channels, including WQPT PBS and Deutsch Welle (DW). We provide free access to educational, environmental, cultural, and news content that mirrors our diverse community.

We build community through television, educational services, and unique experiences. For 42 years, we have supported education—at home, in the classroom, and throughout the community. We interact face-to-face through local events and outreach initiatives including our annual Imagination Station family educational event and visits to public libraries. We support classrooms throughout the region, where we partner with teachers to place more than 5,000 free books per year in the hands of at-risk children. Annually, WQPT presents a Multilingual Education Conference for local educators as a credited, continuing education opportunity. This well-attended conference explores diverse topics in the theory and practice of multilingual education for students from early childhood to adults.

Mission
As a public media service of Western Illinois University, WQPT PBS actively serves a diverse audience throughout West Central Illinois and the Eastern Iowa region. WQPT PBS and our supporters are committed to providing free access to lifelong learning and entertainment, fostering educational success and cultural competency within our communities.

Vision
As a leading community resource, WQPT PBS challenges people to discover and shape their world, broaden their horizons and become active participants in shaping the future, making our community a remarkable place to live.

WQPT Broadcast Area
We deliver enriching programming to a potential viewing audience of approximately 824,000 people, free to all, regardless of ZIP code or income level.