The paper explores the current practice, issues, and trends in virtual reference services in academic libraries in England and U.S.A. Through the application of new technologies (including e-mail, web, and video conference systems), virtual reference services extend traditional stationed library reference services. Quite a few academic libraries are working on the 24/7 live web-based video conference reference services, which enables the librarian to provide real-time reference services with live voice and images, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.