What is the reason the firefighters started burning books?

Books were a source of conflict.... something that actually encouraged people to think, to make themselves aware. In certain areas, this kind of research or curiosity was considered offensive. In order to keep everyone happy and promote complete tolerance of all ideals.... they said burn the books. In other words, ignorance is bliss.

"Someone's written a book on tobacco and cancer of the lungs? The cigarette people are weeping? Burn the book."