This study is designed to research principles for establishing cooperatively virtual reference shelves of university libraries. To achieve the goal, this study establishes theoretical foundations for virtual reference shelves. Also, we discuss why the virtual reference shelves are necessary via cultural subject of libraries. Second, this study investigates current circumstances of virtual reference shelves' usages. This investigation is conducted in terms of nine evaluation indexes. The results are used to justify the cooperative establishment for virtual reference shelves. Last, this study discusses actual methods and procedures for establishing cooperatively virtual reference shelves, associating with roles of related institutions.