WORTH NOTING ON TV

MONDAY `I Love Lucy: The Very First Show' (CBS, 10-11 p.m.): The pilot for the late Lucille Ball's historic and much-loved series was never aired, but some 40 years later it has turned up again, a true find for her fans and for anyone else who'd like to see what comic genius is all about. Clips from other ``Lucy'' episodes are offered by host Lucie Arnaz, along with interview segments with her parents (Ms. Ball and Desi Arnaz); she also interviews some of the show's writers. Inside Gorbachev's USSR (PBS, 9-10 p.m.): First of a four-parter utilizing today's much freer access to the land and its people. As host, journalist-author Hedrick Smith lets viewers see things through the citizens' own eyes, as the series portrays a nation wracked with often terrible tensions - the drive for modernization, fierce regional pride, and a totalitarian bureaucracy fighting for its life. WEDNESDAY Clever Commercials (CBS, 10-11 p.m.): An hour of commercials? Well, yes, but these are fascinating ones culled from around the world through four decades of TV. The show examines the special effects and other tricks that grab your attention and also - the sponsors hope - your dollars. Smithsonian World (PBS, 8-9 p.m.): ``Nigerian Art - Kindred Spirits'' provides a breathtaking look at the vibrantly diverse art of Africa's most populous country, where contemporary artists are confuting Western notions about `African' art.

Please check local listings for all programs, especially on PBS.