This reference work investigates the comprehensive history and programming data of American network television from its inception through the late 20th century. Alex McNeil, a television historian and researcher, compiles extensive broadcast logs, network schedules, and program metadata to provide a systematic record of the medium's evolution. The text serves as a primary reference tool for tracking the longevity, cast, and network affiliation of thousands of individual television series.

Experts and media historians frequently cite this text as a foundational reference for tracking the development of American broadcast television. Readers often note the extreme density of the data, which makes it a standard resource for researchers seeking specific historical broadcast information.