The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History is scheduled to reopen in November. The museum has been closed since 2006 for major renovations. The museum initially was to reopen this summer. On Wednesday, Acting Smithsonian Secretary Cristian Samper told a congressional committee that unexpected asbestos and lead paint caused setbacks for the project. The museum's interior is being redesigned with a special gallery to showcase the Star-Spangled Banner and a skylight to bring more light into a central atrium. Even with the museum being closed last year, the Smithsonian says it counted 24.2 million visitors in 2007 - an increase of 1 million over 2006. Congress is considering a $34 million increase in funding to help the Smithsonian address a backlog on facility repairs. --- Information from: The Washington Post
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