About
While Arda Marred isn't exactly an elite listing, it does have standards. Below is a list of what qualities a site should have to be listed at AML. There's also a description of the different categories. It is not necessary that you read this before you submit your site, but it is recommended.
What Type of Sites
Sites dedicated to specific characters and pairings are more likely to be listed. Sites dedicated to LOTR in general tend to be too general. They have some quotes, some graphics, some basic information and that's pretty much it. I'm looking for sites that are more unique, more well-rounded. If your general site fulfills those requirements, then I'd be happy to list it here.
Information
Information is very important to me. No matter how pretty a site may be, I won't spend much time there unless it offers a lot of information. In order for a site to be listed here, it should have a good amount of information, not just the basics on the subject. Of course, fanlistings, by their very nature, don't really fall under this requirement. If your fanlisting has lots of information, that's great! You will almost certainly be listed. If it doesn't have a lot, that's OK, you still have a good chance, provided you meet the other standards.
Layout/Design
Obviously, layouts are important because they're the first thing you see when you visit a site. My standards for layouts aren't all that high, though. If your site is reasonably easy to navigate, the colors don't clash, and you don't have a lot of broken links and the like, then I will accept it.
Updates
I'm really not strict at all about updates. If you feel your site is complete and you do not plan on adding anything more to it, I do ask that you make a note of it somewhere. This isn't necessary, but I think it's a nice touch. If, however, your site is one that, by its very nature, should be updated often (awards sites, fanlistings, etc.), then you should update reasonably often.
Summary
--Character specific sites are preffered over general sites
--Generous amounts of info are key
--Decent layout, clear navigation
--Updates not very important
Note: Sites are judged individually. These are just guidelines; some sites not fulfilling all of them may still be listed.
Description of Categories
Characters: For sites dedicated to one character only.
Pairings: For sites dedicated to pairings, such as Aragorn/Arwen.
General: For site dedicated to LOTR in general. Sites dedicated to races (Hobbits, for example) are listed here as well.
Other: For sites that don't fit anywhere else. This includes award sites, graphics archives and the like.
