Car making sound out of engine area at certain times

Hi, my car is a 1998 Pontiac Grand Am (2.4 liter 5-speed), and a particular sound comes out of engine area when stopped and while driving. The sound is familiar to a bearing, and usually only is present when the car cabin fan is off or pointed towards feet. If the controls are directed to A/C or to the head/face region the sound from the engine compartment goes away…not sure if this is signaling a problem. Any help would be greatly appreciated! The car has been in my family since new, i’ve had it for 6 years, and it’s done this for about 4 years.

Thanks!

Paul