Description of organization mission: the paley center for media is the premier institution dedicated to advancing the understanding of media-it's artistic value, social impact and historical importance-for the public and media professionals. With locations in new YORK city and LOS angeles, the paley center for media leads the discussion about the cultural, creative, and social significance of television, radio, and emerging platforms. Drawing UPON our curatorial expertise, an international collection, and close relationships with the leaders of the media community, the paley center examines the intersections between media and society. The public may access our permanent media collection and participate in programs that explore and celebrate the creativity, innovations, personalities, and leaders who are shaping media. Previously known as the museum of television and radio, the institution was founded in 1975 by william s. Paley, a pioneering figure in the history of media. Our permanent collection of over 150,000 television and radio programs and advertisements-the nation's largest-is a vital resource for the public and for students, scholars, and researchers, a unique audio-visual record of america's historical and cultural heritage. Admission is free, and visitors may access the archive at an on-site library.