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The aim of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the contemporary meaning of the term reference work in libraries. The purpose of reference work in libraries is to assist users in finding information contained in a variety of sources, and enable efficient use of available library resources. Although the scope and level of complexity of reference work varies in international frameworks, it is possible to identify its three essential functions - informative, advisory and instructive. Domination of one of these approaches in the reference service in contemporary librarianship generally depends on the type of a specific library and its tasks. Reference librarians are members of public services in libraries, engaged in providing reference services that range from providing factual and bibliographic information, through advising students and researchers in the realization of various projects and giving instructions on library programs, to the active participation and assistance in the process of scientific research performed by library users. Although the organized provision of reference services differs both in different countries, and in various types of libraries and particular institutions, there is a general opinion that the work of reference librarians contributes greatly to the users' satisfaction with the library services. Summing up the definitions and theoretical considerations of reference work created in different periods, this paper attempts to show the continuity of the same main idea of reference work. The paper is based on the widest concept of the reference work, describes its components and outlines the main requirements of the contemporary reference service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]