Do not support this business as they aren't inclusive to all. Believe they can make up policies that policy outside the law, and obviously would rather people shop on Amazon then try to support local. Sad that they choose to discriminate against those with disabilities despite Hamilton bylaw 20-155 section 4. There wouldn't be a bylaw if stores didn't have to follow them in their entirity. The pandemic has shown people's true colours as the lack of empathy and compassion for all. Shame on this business, when there are people literally struggling with severe mental health and local businesses want to deny them admittance to their stores and attempt a cop out justification such as "you can shop online or come to the door" you wouldn't tell a POC they can shop alternatively so you aren't discriminating if you don't allow them in the store. Same principle applies.

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!

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!

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 love the City and the City, they have an incredible selection of used and new books. I've made some new discoveries there and they're always able to order in what they don't have. Their kids book section is really vast and full of the most curious and powerful stories. They also have a selection of poetry, fantasy and sci-fi, and more on top of the fiction and non-fiction bestsellers. Oh also! I was ordering a book for a reading group and they not only had it but dropped it off in my mailbox the next day.

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!

A very unique and niche bookstore that hosted a lovely art show. The vibes were thoughtful, lowlit and green. The people were kind and informative. The book selection itself was the most curated that I’ve ever seen before with books fanning from pop fiction, history, religious texts and smut. 10/10

getting older and crankier, and it's getting easier to leave a bookstore without making a purchase. however, been to this new shop twice, and twice found surprise titles. nice shop with new and used books. very good thing for the neighbourhood, and i hope the shop does well.

I love this store. The owner always makes great recommendations and his prices are very reasonable. He stocks a huge variety and has lots of great selections for my kid too. He is so kind and I enjoy going there, even just to browse. Highly recommend this place! Shop local!

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 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!

I always find exactly what I need to read here. The owners are so friendly and helpful. A wide selection of books of all genres, Canadian writers, Indigenous writers, lots of BIPOC and LGBTQ representation. So glad this shop is in our community!

Janet was so kind and didn't make me feel judged for my book choices. They'll even order in specific books for you if you request it! The shop is quaint and peaceful, and I'll absolutely go to this small shop again in the future.

Impressed by this store! Great selection with quite decent prices. Everything that a small local bookstore needs to be. Had only one bad review by an entitled, selfish and unreasonable person. Support the local bookstores!!!

Great independent neighbourhood book store. Unique titles, great mix of new, used and local authors, and some really fun children’s books too. We stop by frequently and I am always happy with my purchases! Love you guys!

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!! ❤️

Great shop with an excellent selection of new and used. I went in knowing what I wanted from the online store, but there’s so much to browse once you’re inside. Will definitely be back.

I love their selection and organization of old and new books. The books in the used section are all in great shape and offered for a fair price. Probably my favorite bookstore ever.

There is a decent variety of new and used books for the size of this shop and the owners were very friendly and helpful. Overall I believe it is a good addition to Ottawa Street.

awesome place, well curated and the books are in great condition, used and new martial. found a great bell hooks book and some nice stuff from the history section. very good

The owners of The City and The City are super knowledgeable and very friendly. They recommend the perfect books and take care to understand the needs of their customers.

A must visit on Ottawa Street! I have stopped by this bookstore a few times now and I am never disappointed. They have a great selection of books (new, used and local).

Went to The City & The City Books for the first time today. They have a great selection of book and socks, and some great deals. Can't wait to go back

Great shop, with helpful and friendly staff. They carry a nice selection of used and new books. Nice to have a book shop in the neighbourhood. …

Plenty of great, reasonably-priced books both new and old are crammed into this pleasant little shop. Another fine addition to Ottawa Street.

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!

This small bookstore is really well curated with a good selection of titles that took my interest, both new and used.

Great bookstore with friendly and helpful staff. They have ordered in books that they didn't have in stock for me.

A wonderful small bookshop with new & used books reasonably priced! It feels good to support a local bookstore!

Always friendly and helpful. They will order books for you if they don't have what you're looking for …

I always find cool graphic novels and missing volumes to fill the holes in my collection.

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

Great small book shop owned by lovely people. Can't wait to visit again.

Great store! Found 3 gems from the mid 70's and early 80's. …

Such a great bookstore with very nice and helpful owners. A gem!

This is a nice small bookstore. The owner is also very helpful.

Charming store, would like to go back and experience it more.

One of the great bookstores in Hamilton..never disappoints.

Loved it here. Nice place, hope to visit again sometime.

Knowledgable and friendly staff. Great selection

Excellent selection of new and used books

Great selection of new and used books!

Great selection of new and used books

Great selection. Friendly service.

Very friendly and helpful staff.

Very professional and helpful

Found some cool stuff

Love this place