I read a post from a few months ago with a similar problem.
The cause that was mentioned there was that the housing or wires that are inside the dome light assembly would touch the roof and blow the fuse. So yes, it is caused by a short circuit, as when you insert a light bulb, it completes the circuit, causing and short, and blowing your fuse.
The solution they posted to this problem was to use some electrical tape and try to insulate any wires or contact points you see. Opening it is quite easy as I had to do so lately. The part thats closest to the wind shield theres a little slot that you can see a metal clip in. Stick a screw driver in there and carefully wiggle it down.
Now, if that doesn't solve your problem, you can disconnect your dome light assembly. I'm basing the location of my vehicle which is a 95 Contour. The connector is behind the plastic panel that runs behind your hood release and down to the floor towards the rear seats. Underneath that is a lot of wires. The one you are looking for is a black cylinder that seperates into two connecters. It was right against the sheetmetal for me. It's pretty much the only bundle of wires that comes from the A pillar down. Also if you're not sure look at the colors of the wires that are inside your domelight assembly and look for the connector with the same color wires. Thats the one.
You'll be going without your dome lights, but at least you'll have the stereo.
