The City & The City Books

They were very friendly and helpful. The price of my book was fair, and the book was in great condition. The store was clean and the set up catalyzed exploring new titles. They were ready for new customers, having several hand sanitizers ready and available, and the safety of staff and customers was paramount. I felt safe and welcomed entering the store and was told the plan on how to navigate the store, being told that I could look at anything I wanted to, but to set it in a designated spot to be sanitized afterward. We are living in a strange time, but this little book store seems to be navigating it well. I will be back, and I WILL recommend The City & The City Books!

Knowledgeable staff and a good selection of books! They hold events for authors and the atmosphere is very welcoming.

Another favourite in the city. Used and new books makes for a more versatile selection. Although the store is on the small-side, the walls are packed with shelves packed with books with plenty of authors from new to old, classic to contemporary. Owners are super nice and are willing to chat. Prices of the used books aren’t bad and they’re in great condition. Hand sanitizer smells quite good!

Amazing store. I love local businesses. Im not sure of the man’s name but he’s always so kind and charming whenever i come in. Definitely recommend shopping here for any of your book (and even button/pin) needs!! ❤️

Recently inquired through email about a title in stock. They responded right away, and were so sweet to deal with. Well curated selection and fair pricing. My favourite bookstore in town. Great spot to browse, or contact them if you're searching for something in particular.

This place caught my eye while I was in town for a concert. I am a big fan of science fiction and weird fiction and a bookstore so obviously named after a China Mieville book set high expectations and let me tell you I was not disappointed in the slightest. Both the new and used section were excellently curated. I could have easily blown a ton of money there, so much good stuff. I do not find myself in Hamilton regularly but this is now a must stop every time I do. I wholeheartedly recommend this store, especially (but not exclusively) to fans of speculative fiction.

I went here for a friend's book reading and it was awesome. The book selection was very well curated and the owners are super helpful!

A great bookstore with lots of new releases. Lovely bookstore to support local!

This bookstore is not only charming but has an excellent collection of books. The owner is so kind and is definitely someone you can chat about books with for hours. Lots of new contemporary books as well as a large used book section. A must visit on Ottawa street!

The best bookshop, not just in Hamilton, but in the GTA! A beautifully curated selection of new and used books in a welcoming space. The used section specifically is phenomenal, with most of the books in nearly-new condition, and all of them at a fair price. Tim and Janet have impeccable taste; tell them some of your best-loved books and they'll have you walking out the door with a stack of new selections, some of which will surely shortly become your new favourites. They have what you're looking for, and when they don't, they have what you didn't know you needed: your new favourite author and a whole new back catalogue to explore. Go have a look!