The Institute of Slovenian Literature and Literary Studies is the only Slovenian research and educational institution outside the universities that engages in systematic research in literature. One of the principle focuses of its work is research on Slovenian literature and literary studies, as well as related artistic, esthetic, cultural, and historical issues. An additional focus includes theoretical and methodological issues, the modes of existence of literature, its functional, systemic, reception, and axiological aspects, and their reflection in various directions in literary studies.

The insitute's staff carries out comparative-historical, theoretical, and methodological research on literary periods, trends, genres, forms, style, verse, and approaches to literary studies. Their goal is to obtain new findings, open fresh perspectives, and verify and implement new methodologies. Areas that require long-term teamwork or updating of findings receive priority, as well as those of special currency for the profession.

The institute organizes scholarly meetings with broad and international participation. It also prepares print and electronic critical editions of older Slovenian works of literature, documentary material, and works in literary history, and issues scholarly monographs through the series Studia litteraria as well as thematic volumes of proceedings. In addition, the institute cooperates with the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts and other research and educational institutions in Slovenia and abroad, as well as with international professional associations. The institute’s research staff also does significant editorial work for the scholarly journals Slavistična revija (Slavic Review), Primerjalna književnost (Comparative Literature), and CLCWeb: Comparative Literature and Culture.