fore edge

the front outer edge of a book, opposite the bound edge.

Origin of fore edge

First recorded in 1655–65

The head or top of a book, in contradistinction to fore-edge or tail.

Notes on Bookbinding for Libraries |John Cotton Dana
The book is placed back of the sewing bench with the fore-edge toward the sewer and with the first section on top.

Library Bookbinding |Arthur Low Bailey
When the fore-edge of both boards has been turned in, the head and tail must also be turned in.

Bookbinding, and the Care of Books |Douglas Cockerell
These must be measured from the fore-edge of the board and run in with straight-edge and folder.

Bookbinding, and the Care of Books |Douglas Cockerell

These side-papers are measured and cut one inch larger than the volume at head, foot, and fore-edge.

The Book-Hunter at Home |P. B. M. Allan

fore-edge

the outer edge of the pages of a book