In "Famous First Facts" by Joseph Nathan Kane c) 1973 3rd edition,
originally "A Record of First Happening, Discoveries and Inventions in
the United States," The H.W. Wilson Co., NY 1964, it states that the
first school in America was established in 1633 in New York City, and
an Evening School in 1661. I imagine that books may have been lent
then?
Earlier, in 1627, an oil spring was recorded in Cuba, New York.
(Ibid.)
George Myers