The Betty R. Slater Collection is three hundred titles in the fields of Early Childhood Education and Children's Literature presented to Carlson Library by Bernice Kain in memory of her sister Betty R. Slater, Professor of Education, 1963-1977.

The introductory section of the Betty R. Slater Collection bibliography provides background information about Dr. Betty R. Slater:

"Dr. Betty R. Slater, Professor of Education, 1963-1977: Dr. Betty R. Slater's 23-years experience as a teacher in the elementary schools of Tonowanda, New York, established a firm foundation for her excellence in teaching at Clarion State College in the fields of early childhood education and children's literature. She also taught in summer sessions at the Lake Erie College for Women and the University of Buffalo. In 1962 she received her Doctor of Education degree from the University of Buffalo and in 1963 joined the faculty at Clarion as a professor of education. Dr. Slater participated actively in the selection of library materials related to her classes. The three hundred volumes being added to Carlson Library by gift of her sister, Mrs. Bernice Kain, constitute a fitting memorial for Betty, one that will benefit many times the academic community who knew and respected Betty for her ability in, and dedication to, teaching. Dr. Slater died in an automobile accident December 23, 1977, in the town of Eden, New York, while on her way to her family for the Christmas holidays. Nancy Shaw McKee in a eulogy at the memorial service in Clarion stated, "When we consider 'All things bright and beautiful; all things great and small; all things wise and wonderful,' we will remember Betty Slater." "