While smokers can still buy cigarettes at the Nittany Mall, lighting up there won't be so easy.

The Nittany Mall announced yesterday that it will ban smoking in its public areas starting April 1. The statement comes just a week after local McDonald's restaurants announced they will prohibit smoking in their restaurants.

Bonnie Sullivan, marketing director of the Nittany Mall, said in a prepared statement that posters and handouts will warn customers of the change, and as of April 1, no-smoking stickers will be posted on mall entrances and all ash receptacles will be removed.

Nittany Mall General Manager Paul A. Witt said in the statement, "We have the health and comfort of our customers in mind, and see this as a very positive step."

Sullivan said in an interview that based on discussion with a Community Advisory Board, it was decided that smoking was something customers are very concerned about. The mall did not ban smoking because McDonald's did, Sullivan said, but they are glad they will be following the same action.

The ban will apply just to common areas, Sullivan said, adding that stores will be able to enact their own policies.

Brian Dietrich, manager of Boardwalk Fries in the mall, said many customers and employees like to smoke in restaurants.

"I don't think some of the people in this area will appreciate this," he said, although the store will most likely follow suit and prohibit smoking in the restaurant.

Randy Snyder, assistant manager of Value City, said he understands the necessity of the rule.

"I had a feeling it was coming," he said, adding that because he is a smoker he is probably going to have to quit because he can't smoke anywhere.

Some students disagree with the decision to ban smoking in the mall.

Scott Hoover (senior-economics), who also smokes, said he understands that people don't like smoke, but thinks the mall is well ventilated.

But Tim Bezio (freshman-engineering) said he agrees with the mall's decision. There should be a "universal ban" on smoking in all public places, he said.