WATCH ONLINE: PBS Video Player launches

Ahead of the curve, behind the curve -- now PBS is ahead again. Public TV was the first network to really "get" the internet, providing loads of value-added text content when the World Wide Web was still in its infant stage. But when online video exploded, PBS was a laggard. This week it's launched a new video player that finally puts it back in the forefront when it comes to streamed content.

PBS Video, still in beta form, promises thousands of hours of programs, films and documentaries -- more added over future weeks -- all streaming in a sleek widescreen player with a clean interface that makes it easy to find your fun and/or facts. You can browse a "cover flow" view organized by either Featured Programs (American Experience, Masterpiece, Antiques Roadshow, Nature, et al) or Featured Collections (The Presidents, The Economy, Be Green, Going Places, etc.). Or head direct to what you want, through drop-down lists of Programs and Topics. (There's also a search function.)

Watch in either the standard window or full-screen view. A screen-bottom controller allows you to slide fast-forward or back. You can even "share" videos via Facebook, Digg and other social programs; email links to friends, and click directly to buying shows on DVD or from iTunes.

All this comes at little cost -- free viewing, with pre-roll underwriting spots. They're longer than the familiar on-air announcements, but tolerable.

Finally, adults get the thrills their younger counterparts have been enjoying since last fall on the still-going-strong PBS Kids Go! video player.