How was lyddie educating herself

Lyddie has very little in the way of formal education. She had to leave school at an early age when her father left home. Her mother started to develop serious mental health problems, and so Lyddie was left with no choice but to take care of her siblings. Nevertheless, Lyddie is passionate about getting an education, and going to college is one of her most cherished ambitions in life.
But first of all, she needs to learn how to read and write properly. Thankfully, her workmates Diana and Betsy are on hand to help out. They inspire Lyddie and give her a love of reading and books, especially Oliver Twist, which really captures her imagination. It also helps Lyddie develop her reading and writing skills to such an extent that she's able to start writing letters home to her family. Reading Oliver Twist opens up a whole new world for Lyddie, and encourages her to pursue her educational goals.