Spring Grove-based Glatfelter on Tuesday announced a strong first quarter, which was largely attributed to the paper manufacturer's specialty papers division.

First-quarter income was $18.9 million, or 43 cents per diluted share-an increase from the adjusted earnings of $16 million, or 34 cents per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2011.

Consolidated net sales for the first quarter were $397.4 million, up from $396.8 million a year ago.