. . . this is a useful introduction to a group of subjects that will continue to become more important in the library world, particularly in academic libraries.

Technical Services Quarterly

I am very impressed with Big Data Shocks. It covers everything from what we mean when we talk about data to privacy, corporate overreach, social media, surveillance, as well as how data impacts libraries. This is a very useful book for all libraries, especially those in higher education.

Rebecca L. Mugridge, dean of University Libraries, University at Albany

What we today call ‘big data’ is both history’s best implementation of the mythical Library of Alexandria (aimed at the collection of all the world’s knowledge) and history’s best implementation of Borges’ Library of Babel (demonstrating the impossibility and futileness of such endeavor). In Big Data Shocks, Andrew Weiss takes a long overdue close look at the unavoidable fusion between libraries and big data. He rightfully calls the result ‘shocks,’ including ‘reality shocks’ and ‘future shocks.’ He also shows that these current shocks actually allow librarians and information professionals to implement their mandates better than we could have ever imagined even a few years ago. Modern big data challenges, such as privacy and corporate overreach, can benefit decisively from the lessons learned over centuries of librarianship. This is a must-read for any professional in the area.

Martin Hilbert, associate professor, department of Communication, University of California, Davis and distinguished scholar, Kuge Center, U.S. Library of Congress