Share 'Compost piles'

I've started to use the two compost piles that have been behind my house for 5 years. Actually, I've piled leaves on them in the past, but never used them to compost kitchen waste. Now I have a few chickens and want to use the manure as compost in the garden. Any tips for how to creat a successful compost pile? How much sun does it need? Thanks so much!