lighting difficulties

Question
I have a 55gal freshwater aquarium that I am trying to upgrade the lighting so I can have live plants.  The tank has the brace in the center so I purchased 2 24in. all-glass versa tops and 2 all-glass double strip light fixtures(one for ea. half).  Well, I've discovered that the openings at the top are actually about 23 inches long and both the glass tops and light fixtures are just the tiniest bit too long.  I figure I can probably get the glass cut to fit, but I don't know what to do about getting the light to fit.  Or is there a different brand of light that might work?  Any suggestions?  Very frustrating!  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Catherine,
I am assuming that your aquarium is the standard 48" long as most 55 gallons are. Would it be possible to get one long light fixture that extends the entire length of the aquarium? I have a 75 gallon Marineland brand aquarium that has a light fixture that extends the entire length of the aquarium instead of being two separate fixtures. I also have the same type of fixture on my 105 gallon tank. They both are 48" long. I have glass tops that are in two separate pieces. The glass pieces are about 22 1/2" long but the single 48" light fixture fits great.I have included a really good website that might help you decide on what might be best. The lights pictured are similar to the ones I have on my 48" tanks.
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=3817&N=2004+113349
I hope this helps,
Karen