Guide for the removal of metal fasteners from historical documents

The presence of metallic elements in historical documents poses a threat to their long-term preservation. This guide, prepared by the Subdirecci & oacute;n de Investigaci & oacute;n y Conservaci & oacute;n del Patrimonio Documental, establishes a protocol for the removal of these elements from unbound documents. The main objective is to ensure the preservation of historical documents, preventing damage caused by the oxidation and corrosion of metals. The guide details the types of metallic elements encountered, along with step-by-step procedures for their removal, while emphasizing the importance of identifying and cataloging elements with historical and aesthetic value. This guide is mandatory for AGN personnel involved in any way in the handling of historical documents. Its application will help extend the lifespan of documentary heritage and provide access to researchers and the public interested in consulting these materials. The following public servants contributed to the preparation of this document: Shashenka & Uacute;rsula Sanabria Contreras, specialist in conservation and restoration assigned to the Departamento de Estabilizaci & oacute;n y Restauraci & oacute;n; Ana Paula Garcia Flores, former head of the Departamento de Estabilizaci & oacute;n y Restauraci & oacute;n; Diana Estefania Santill & aacute;n L & oacute;pez, current head this department. The document was proposed by Norma Andrea S & aacute;nchez Gonz & aacute;lez, director of the Subdirecci & oacute;n de Investigaci & oacute;n y Conservaci & oacute;n del Patrimonio Documental, and was validated by Mariana Berenice Gayosso Martinez, director of the Direcci & oacute;n de Preservaci & oacute;n del Patrimonio Documental.