The 27-year-old Scotland international will spend the rest of the season at the City ground, with 31-year-old keeper Paul Smith travelling in the opposite direction.
Mowbray said: "It's a good deal for the club and its a good deal for the player (Boyd), who will hopefully get some game time and build his confidence back up.''
Eighteen-year-old Connor Ripley, the son of former Boro midfielder Stuart, took over at the Madejski Stadium, but Mowbray is desperate not to dent his confidence by throwing him in too soon.
To that end, he has spent the last 48 hours desperately trying to find an experienced loan signing, and finally made a breakthrough with Smith.
Mowbray said: "Smith has plenty of experience at this level and he has played in the Premier League too.
"We clearly needed a goalkeeper, and he brings us experience and a steady pair of hands.''
The newcomer will go straight into the team for tonights vital home clash with Derby.
Source: Northern Echo
Source: Northern Echo