The library is the final building in the $50 million Bendigo Campus Transformation Project.

It incorporates a substantial and historic Sandhurst collection, active learning spaces, a digital learning lab, modern event spaces, and regional Indigenous artwork.

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La Trobe University vice-chancellor John Dewar anticipated the new cultural heart of La Trobe's Bendigo campus would become a regular gathering place for staff, students and the community.

"The library is absolutely the nerve centre of the campus in Bendigo and it is absolutely why we have spent over $20 million on extending and developing it," he said.

"It has taken us six years to complete the project. It was a project that we had to get right and I am excited to say that we can now see what a fantastic building it is."

Professor Dewar said the library would become a hub for many students.

"It's where students can come and access material they need for their learning, work together in groups, and there is a social element," he said.

"For a lot of students, this library is almost a home away from home, particularly for the students who are here living on campus.

"It is an absolute vital resource in many ways for the students."

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Outdoor education student Lachlan Saunders was excited about the new building.

"I try and use the library as much as possible and it really provides a new and vibrant space with more energy," he said.

"Not only for study, but the library is great for that companionship and social aspect. (It) provides us with the chance outside of our Zoom classes, where you're stuck in your room, to now come to the library and see your mates outside, face-to-face and in person."

A number of university representatives and community leaders helped to officially open the library, including La Trobe Chancellor John Brumby and Professor Dewar, Bendigo East MP Jacinta Allan, and Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee.

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