About

About Amherst Media

Amherst Media was founded as the Center of Community Access Television (CCATV) in 1976, became Amherst Community Television (ACTV) in 1989, and is now known as Amherst Media.

Since 1976, Amherst Media has been a dynamic, community-driven communication and technology center in Amherst, MA, making it the oldest, continuously-operating nonprofit, Cable Access Center in the country.

While providing the Amherst community with traditional Public, Education, and Government (PEG) Access, Amherst Media has led the way in introducing new media technologies through trainings and opening its venues to non-traditional media entities and ventures. This allows citizens to be active participants, producers, and savvy consumers of information.

Amherst Media is dedicated to closing the digital divide and providing opportunities for everyone to experience the precious commodity known as "Free Speech". Amherst Media ensures that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the ever-growing use of media and technology as a means of discourse in our world. Emerging media and the evolving use of technology and digital content enhance all facets of our lives, from work to play, and from learning to community service.

Building a New Home

We need your financial support so we can realize our goal. Our vision is to create a new resource for the Amherst community: a hub for civil dialogue, a bastion for free speech, and a catalyst for economic development.

Amherst Media has provided community residents proper training to operate video equipment so they could produce their own programming. Emphasizing self-empowerment and collective endeavors, community members have provided a trough of archives capturing the politics, culture, and educational events and issues for more than four decades.

If free speech and independent media are issues that you firmly believe in, then please support Amherst Media in continuing to be the "Voice of the People". Your contribution will help us continue to serve our beloved community and remain a collective gathering place for democracy, government transparency, storytelling, and education.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I watch Amherst Media on TV?

Amherst Media has three channels that are available to view for cable subscribers in the Town of Amherst: Channels 12 (Public Access), 15 (Education), and 9 (Government). You can also WATCH ALL THREE CHANNELS live on our website.
I don't have cable television. Can I still access Amherst Media programs?

Yes! Find us at AmherstMedia.org on your computer, smart phone, or tablet, where you can watch current programs and access thousands of shows, public meetings, and educational offerings from our archives.
Is Amherst Media funded by tax dollars?

No. The Town of Amherst receives Comcast fees, not tax dollars, for its public access station as required by Federal Regulations. Between declining cable subscriptions and the ever-increasing operating costs of insurance and technology updates, Amherst Media depends more and more on contributions from the private sector. Learn more about supporting Amherst Media.

Does Amherst Media only offer programs related to local issues?

Not at all! While we are committed to covering Amherst town meetings and cultural events, you will find ample offerings of international programs from China to Pakistan, from Mexico to Poland, and shows that originate nationally and internationally, like 'Classic Arts Showcase' and 'Democracy Now!'
Can only certain community members host a show?

No! We are dedicated to closing the digital divide and providing opportunities for everyone, including non-english speakers to experience the precious commodity of Free Speech. As a member of Amherst Media you can propose a show and a topic and we will be there to train and equip you to produce, shoot, and air your work.
How do I get involved if I don't want to be on-camera and I don't have my own show?

Amherst Media volunteers are members who may choose to help cover an event or film or edit a producer's show. Volunteers will get credit for being a crewmember and obtain valuable camera and editing training, but are also providing a vital service to the rest of the community.