In 1993, C-SPAN, which was created by cable and offered as a public service, launched its Bus program as a way to bring the world of public affairs into schools and communities nationwide. From New York to California, the Buses have visited thousands of students, teachers and educators in all 50 states to talk about the cable industry’s commitment to education. With the 2008 election season in full swing, C-SPAN’s two Campaign 2008 Buses are currently traveling across the country following candidates on the campaign trail. The 45-foot Buses are equipped with mobile multi-media demonstration centers and TV production units that can be used as studios during live programs, such as C-SPAN’s Washington Journal. This allows C-SPAN the opportunity to interview students, authors, journalists and politicians aboard the Buses from anywhere in the country. Since the launch of the Campaign 2008 Bus program in January 2007, the Buses have visited: ·9 Presidential Libraries · 29 State Capitals ·71 Universities ·77 High Schools ·18 Middle Schools ·6 Social Studies Conferences BUS QUICK FACTS · C-SPAN School Bus was launched November 1, 1993. · In January 2007, the School Bus was re-launched as the Campaign 2008 Bus. · In January 2008, the Book TV Bus was re-launched to become the second Campaign 2008 Bus. · 40,950 people have visited the C-SPAN Campaign 2008 Buses. · 2,738 teachers have visited the Buses. · 21,146 students have visited the Buses. · The Buses are 45 feet long, 9 feet wide, 13 feet tall & weigh 22 tons. · The C-SPAN Bus crew usually consists of 3 employees: 2 marketing representatives, and one motor coach operator.