From Dan:

Manure is an accumulation at most barns; some older. Fresh manure is high in nitrogen that may burn plants so look for or ask for the older manure. As an addition to a compost pile it should not be a problem if layered amongst your other additives in the pile. You may wish to thicken the brown layers to strike a balance. Add half and inch of common soil to each layer group; increases the microbials that speed the process.

If you wish to add it direct to the garden, allow three weeks before planting or seeding. This will allow some decomposition and distribution of the high nutrients.

Good gardening, OD