The ASCR ICL is a research institute specializing in the history of Czech literature and Czech literary thought from its beginnings to the present day. The focus for this activity consists in large-scale lexicographical, literary-historical and theoretical research projects. An essential element in the activities of the Institute is also its function as a national and international information centre for the field. The Institute provides bibliographical and library services to researchers and students of Czech literature and other associated disciplines, and it is meant to be a centre of information and inspiration for foreign bohemicists.