Due to differing perspectives or role boundaries, the working relationships between librarians and technicians have often been fraught with tension and difficulty. If this divide results in a negative team dynamic in the workplace, it can have an impact on the service of the library or information agency and in some cases, its budget. This article disseminates the results of a survey of over 200 library workers conducted by the author in January 2013 on the subject of working relationships. Librarians, library technicians and other support staff across all sectors participated in the survey. The article discusses the tasks that librarians and library technicians often undertake, the differences between the two roles and any areas of role overlap, and areas of tension or difficulty in working relationships. The article also examines some of the reasons why library technicians upgrade their qualifications, and if holding dual (librarian and library technician) credentials has changed their relationships with other library technicians, and introduces ideas to improve relationships, including measures that the industry can take to forge a greater understanding between librarians and library technicians. The potential outcomes can ensure that libraries and information services retain staff. © 2014 Australian Library and Information Association