What model refrigerator do you have? This will help identify what the shelf part you are referring to does.
Good luck!

most likely that fiberglass is for sound deadening.

Whirlpool Model ED5PHEXMQ00
Manufactured 12/03

Sound dampening makes sense. I don't want to pull the fiberglass out before making sure I won't be creating a second set of problems. Thanks.

Is this the "shelf" you mean? It's under the compressor and condensor coil?

Insulation Panel

The fiberglass is for sound insulation and somewhat for heat ... but the panel as a whole is important to help direct airflow over the condensor. Removing and discarding the fiberglass isn't a large issue but don't get rid of the panel.

Yes, it might be although I believe that looks like the piece that fits on the bottom of the back of the refrigerator. Thank you for the link. I will explore further. At any rate, in order to get to the "shelf" I have to pull off the back panel!